Thermal Decomposition of Dimethylacetamide (DMAc)

N,N-Dimethylacetamide (DMAc) is routinely used in industry to produce fibers, adhesives, and pharmaceuticals and is often heated to high temperatures (>160 °C, >330 °F). While there have been mentions of thermal decomposition and toxic gas generation, the thermal decomposition of DMAc has not been investigated in detail. We use experimental and modeling techniques to identify the temperature DMAc begins to deviate from theoretical vapor pressure, quantify the decomposition products, and predict a gas generation rate. We raise awareness of the pressure and chemical hazards of DMAc at high temperature with the goal of preventing incidents and increasing safety surrounding this commonly used chemical.