TAED (Tetraacetylethylenediamine) is a chemical organic compound used as a bleaching agent in cleaning products and detergents. 

The name describes the structure of the molecule

• "Tetra" indicates the presence of four identical functional groups in the molecule.
• "acetyle" refers to the acetyl functional group, which has the formula CH₃CO.
• "ethylenediamine" indicates a diamine structure derived from ethylene, with the formula H₂N-CH₂-CH₂-NH₂.

Description of raw materials used in production

• Ethylenediamine (EDA). This serves as the backbone for producing TAED. It's an organic compound with two amine groups. Ethylenediamine is used in chemistry for its bonding properties and as a base for complex formation.
• Acetic anhydride. Used to acetylate the ethylenediamine and produce TAED. Acetyl groups are derived from acetic acid and are known for their reactive properties.

Step-by-step summary of industrial chemical synthesis process

• Ethylenediamine is placed in a suitable reactor.
• Acetic anhydride is added to the ethylenediamine in the reactor.
• The reaction between EDA and acetic anhydride yields TAED. The reaction needs to be monitored to ensure it occurs under optimal conditions.
• Once the reaction is complete, the mixture is cooled.
• The produced TAED is then filtered and washed.
• After filtration, the TAED is dried.
• The dried product is then ground to the desired size and packaged.

It appears in the form of a white powder.

What it is for and where

Tetraacetylethylenediamine is a whitener that is mainly used in detergents and additives for washing machines and dishwashers. It is completely dissolved in a few minutes during washing.

Cosmetics

Bleaching agent. This ingredient exerts a depigmentation and/or lightening action on the set of pigments produced by melanocytes and known as melanin, the substance responsible for skin colouration.

Medical Applications

Sterilization. In the medical realm, TAED can be used in conjunction with peracids for equipment sterilization.

Commercial Applications

Detergents. TAED is commonly used in laundry detergents as an activator for hydrogen peroxide, allowing the release of peroxide even at low temperatures.

Bleaching agents. It's used as a precursor for generating radical species that possess bleaching properties.

Industrial Cleaning. TAED enhances the efficiency of industrial cleaning products, especially where bleaching power is needed.

Safety

It is generally considered safe.

https://www.heraproject.com/files/2-F-04-HERA%20TAED%20full%20web%20wd.pdf

• Molecular Formula   C₁₀H₁₆N₂O₄
• Molecular Weight   228.24 g/mol
• CAS  10543-57-4
• EC number  234-123-8

Synonyms: 

• TAED
• Tetraacetylethylenediamine
• Acetamide, N,N'-1,2-ethanediylbis[N-acetyl-
• EINECS 234-123-8
• UNII-P411ED0N2B