Mechanochemical Synthesis of Ammonium-Iminodiacetato-Dithiocarbamate: An Environmentally Friendly Approach

Abstract

Dithiocarbamates are a group of organic compounds that have a variety of agricultural, industrial, and medical applications. Ammonium-iminodiacetato-dithiocarbamate, (NH4)3idadtc, and its complexes with transition metals have shown fungicidal activity against the phytopathogenic fungus Botrysphaeria dothidea, which causes olive rot. Previously, (NH4)3idadtc was prepared using a traditional method which requires the use of significant amounts of methanol [1]. In order to optimize this method (shorter duration of synthesis, increased yield, avoiding the use of solvents), mechanochemical approach, recognized as "green chemistry", was studied. The aim of this experimental work was to achieve a dithiocarbamate derivative of iminodiacetate, (NH4)3idadtc, through mechanochemical grinding in the planetary ball mill using zirconium oxide jars and balls. Iminodiacetate acid and ammonium-carbonate were grinded for 5 minutes, and after that CS2 was added. IR spectra of the product were recorded at different reaction times of 1, 1.5, and 2 h. After their comparison, it was concluded that the reaction is completed within 1 hour. The product was characterized by elemental analysis, IR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, which confirmed that the desired compound was obtained. This opens broad possibilities for eco-friendly, solvent-free synthesis of dithiocarbamate compounds.