Comparison between mechanochemical and solution synthesis of ammonium- iminodiacetatedithiocarbamate

Abstract

In this study, a comparison between the mechanochemical and conventional (solution) synthesis of ammonium-iminodiacetatedithiocarbamate is presented. The solution-based synthesis was carried out using methanol as the solvent, and the product was obtained after three hours. The mechanochemical synthesis method was chosen due to its alignment with the principles of green chemistry, particularly in reducing or eliminating the use of harmful organic solvents. The mechanochemical synthesis was conducted using iminodiacetic acid, ammonium carbonate, and carbon disulfide as starting materials and two types of ball mills: a vibratory ball mill (Fritsch Mini-Mill Pulverisette 23) and a planetary ball mill (Tmax ball mill). The mechanical energy provided by these mills enabled the reaction to proceed efficiently without the need for additional solvents or external heating. Compared to conventional solution-based methods, this approach significantly reduces solvent waste, shortens reaction times, and simplifies product isolation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to monitor the progression of the reactions and to confirm the identity of the final products. The results suggest that mechanochemistry is a viable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly alternative for the synthesis of dithiocarbamate derivatives.