What are its primary applications?

1. ​Polymer Industry:
   • Solvent for polyurethane (PU) slurry production (59% of demand), used in adhesives, synthetic leather, and coatings
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   • Key in synthesizing fibers like polyacrylonitrile and polyamide
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2. ​Electronics:
   • High-purity cleaning agent for semiconductors and circuit boards
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3. ​Pharmaceuticals:
   • Intermediate in antibiotic synthesis (e.g., sulfadiazine) and drug formulations
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4. ​Chemical Synthesis:
   • Catalyst in chlorination reactions (e.g., thionyl chloride with carboxylic acids)
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How is DMF produced?

• ​Synthesis:
  • Reaction of ​CO with dimethylamine under high temperature (120°C) and pressure (1.8 MPa)
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• ​Challenges:
  • Frequent equipment clogging due to salt crystallization during purification
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  • High energy consumption and wastewater generation during recycling

What are the health and safety risks?

• ​Toxicity:
  • Classified as ​Group 2A carcinogen (probable human carcinogen) by IARC
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  • Causes liver and kidney damage via metabolic intermediates like ​N-methylformamide (NMF)
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• ​Acute Exposure:
  • Symptoms include skin irritation, nausea, and respiratory distress
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• ​Protective Measures:
  • Use PPE (gloves, goggles) and ensure proper ventilation