Dimethylbenzylamine

N,N-Dimethylbenzylamine can be synthesized by the Eschweiler–Clarke reaction of benzylamine ==Reactions==

It undergoes directed ortho metalation with butyl lithium: :[C6H5CH2N(CH3)2 + BuLi → 2-LiC6H4CH2N(CH3)2 :LiC6H4CH2N(CH3)2 + E+ → 2-EC6H4CH2N(CH3)2 Via these reactions, many derivatives are known with the formula 2-X-C6H4CH2N(CH3)2 (E = SR, PR2, etc.). The amine is basic and undergoes quaternization with alkyl halides (e.g. hexyl bromide) to give quaternary ammonium salts: :[C6H5CH2N(CH3)2 + RX → [C6H5CH2N(CH3)2R]+X− Such salts are useful phase transfer catalysts. ==Uses==

As the molecule has tertiary amine functionality, two of the key uses are as an epoxy-amine cure enhancement catalyst and also as a polyurethane catalyst. ==References==