N,N-Diethylformamide (DEF) – High-Purity Solvent for Electronics and Industrial Applications
Basic Information
Product Name: N,N-Diethylformamide
CAS Number: 617-84-5
Molecular Formula: C₅H₁₁NO
Molecular Weight: 101.15 g/mol
Appearance: Colorless to light yellow transparent liquid, free from visible impurities
Properties: Toxic, flammable liquid with a characteristic unpleasant odor
Boiling Point: 176°C
Relative Density: 0.908 g/cm³
Flash Point: 60°C
Solubility: Miscible with water and most organic solvents
Overview
N,N-Diethylformamide (DEF) is a polar aprotic solvent with excellent solvency and low volatility. It is widely used in electronics manufacturing for precision cleaning of LCD, LED, and OLED panels, as well as in semiconductor fabrication. Its lower toxicity compared to DMF, DMAC, and NMP, combined with good chemical stability, makes it a preferred choice for many industrial applications.
Key Performance Features
Lower toxicity – significantly less hazardous than DMF, DMAC, and NMF; complies with EU REACH and RoHS requirements.
High solvency – dissolves a wide range of polar and non‑polar compounds, comparable to DMF, DMSO, NMP, and DMAC.
Favorable boiling point – 176°C provides a good balance between evaporation rate and process stability.
Low moisture absorption – lower water pickup than DMF and DMAC, reducing hydrolysis risks.
Easy recovery – can be distilled and reused, improving cost‑efficiency.
Versatile replacement – effectively substitutes DMF, DMSO, NMP, DMAC, THF, cyclohexanone, isophorone, and other solvents.
Applications
Electronics: Cleaning of photoresists from LCD, LED, and OLED display panels; high‑purity rinsing for semiconductor wafers.
Polymers: Used in polyurethane synthetic leather, shoe polishes, and water‑based polyurethane resin formulations.
Energy storage: Solvent for lithium‑ion battery electrolytes and electrode slurries.
Chemical synthesis: As a reaction medium and extraction solvent in fine chemical production.
Handling and Storage
Store in a cool, well‑ventilated area, away from open flames, high temperatures, and strong oxidizers or acids.
Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination.
Use explosion‑proof equipment and proper grounding during transfer.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, protective clothing).
In case of spillage, absorb with inert material and dispose of according to local regulations.
Packaging
Available in 180 kg plastic drums, or custom packaging upon request.
Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity, water content, acidity, and color to ensure consistent performance.