3-(N-Cyclohexylamino)propyltrimethoxysilane belongs to the silane coupling agent family, recognized for bridging organic and inorganic materials. Chemists see this molecule as a bridge-maker in industrial formulas, owing to its dual nature—one end sports an organofunctional group, the other carries a silane moiety. The structure isn't just a curiosity for molecular enthusiasts—there’s real-world punch here. The cyclohexylamino group binds well with organic polymers, while the trimethoxysilane group grabs hold of glass, metal, and mineral surfaces. This arrangement offers a shortcut to stronger adhesion in everything from epoxy resins to specialty coatings.
This chemical looks different depending on form, but it’s usually a clear to slightly hazy liquid at room temperature. Molecular weight hovers around 289.48 g/mol. Purity levels in commerce stick around 97% or higher, offering dependable performance batch to batch. Expect a density near 1.00 g/cm³ at 25°C. With a boiling point reported about 150°C at 2 mmHg, storage and shipping call for good ventilation and temperature controls to keep volatility in check. A faint amine-like odor says you’re working with a real compound, not a lab fantasy. Commercial supply will sometimes turn up as a solid under certain cold conditions, quickly reverting to liquid after warming.
Chemists represent this silane as C12H27NO3Si, which tells you a lot about reactivity. Examine the formula: the alkoxysilane part eagerly hydrolyzes in the presence of moisture, leading to silanol formation. This lets it bond to inorganic surfaces or get involved in crosslinking reactions. Specifications in industry focus on clarity, free amine content, refractive index (typically around 1.450–1.470), and flash point (ranging above 110°C closed cup). Water solubility is low, but it hydrolyzes in moist environments.
Depending on handling temperature and shipping conditions, 3-(N-Cyclohexylamino)propyltrimethoxysilane can show up as a dense liquid, syrupy in texture, clear to pale yellow. Some suppliers process it into a powder or crystalline solid by desiccation, especially for long-haul shipping in temperate or cold locations. Others may supply beads or flakes, boosting flowability for precise laboratory weighing or high-throughput manufacturing. Regardless of format—liquid, powder, pearls, flakes—the product’s density, roughly 1.00 g/cm³, carries through.
This silane earns its place in industries pushing for durability and longevity. The amine functionality makes it compatible with epoxy, urethane, and acrylic resins. Industrial players use it to treat glass fiber in composite manufacturing, strengthen coatings, and increase adhesion in adhesives and sealants that need to stick under heat, cold, or moisture stress. Chemical suppliers include it in primer formulations to improve the bonding strength between metals, minerals, or plastics and reactive polymers. Paint and coatings makers appreciate its effect on crosslinking, boosting scratch-resistance, and weatherability. As a raw material, it pops up in surface modifiers, water repellents, and specialty siloxane polymers, each use reflecting precise molecular properties.
On global shipment declarations, 3-(N-Cyclohexylamino)propyltrimethoxysilane regularly appears under HS Code 2931.90, flagged for organo-silicon compounds. The chemical requires respect—trimethoxysilane groups hydrolyze to produce methanol upon contact with water, which brings flammability and toxicity. Short-term exposure may irritate eyes and skin; inhalation indoors can trigger respiratory effects. Every workplace handling this chemical needs robust ventilation, PPE including goggles and gloves, and spill kits—no line supervisor should cut corners. Disposal follows hazardous chemical rules, with authorities worldwide watching shipments and storage.
I’ve seen labs trip up on storage—store in a cool, dry zone, away from acids and oxidizers. Avoid breathing in dust or vapors, because this isn’t just a theoretical hazard. Methanol forms from hydrolysis and can cause headaches, dizziness, or more serious effects. Fume hoods, nitrile gloves, and chemical goggles are a must. Prepare for spillage by keeping inert absorbents (like sand) close by. Fire suppression should favor foam, dry powder, or CO₂. Material Safety Data Sheets urge strict respect for chemical hygiene plans. Accidental release protocols matter in practice—this product isn’t forgiving if mishandled.
In high-performance industries, raw materials shape the outcome on the factory floor. 3-(N-Cyclohexylamino)propyltrimethoxysilane turns ordinary composites into better products by connecting surfaces that might never bond. This effect shows up in modern wind turbines, better car parts, reliable semiconductors, and long-lasting construction materials. Challenge comes from environmental and health risks. To reduce impact, companies must train every handler, improve ventilation, and substitute more benign alternatives when possible. GHS labeling needs to stay current. Regulatory bodies need to enforce proper registration and require transparent hazard communication right down the supply chain. Every solution starts with understanding, and knowing what sits in the drum or bag matters for every technician and supplier.
