Diphenylamine

Diphenylamine is an antioxidant that has been found in a variety of plants, including black and green tea plants, onion, and citrus. It inhibits the oxidation of α-farnesene in solution as well as in the coating of Granny Smith apples. Diphenylamine (1,000 ppm) prevents superficial scald in several varieties of apples when applied by dipping or wrapping post-harvest. It induces toxicity in the aquatic organisms D. magna, P. phosphoreum, and V. fischeri (EC50s = 2.3, ~4.75, and ~5.5 mg/L, respectively). Diphenylamine has been used in colorimetric assays for the quantification of DNA. Formulations containing diphenylamine have been used to prevent deterioration of apple and pear crops post-harvest.