Its chemical formula is CH2(NH2)2, and its structure consists of two amino groups on a central carbon atom.

Although methanediamine only exists transiently in solution,[2] its hydrochloride salt has been used in chemical synthesis since 1914.

[3] The hydrochloride is useful for the synthesis of primary amides from amino acids.

[4] Methylamine and ammonia will react to form methanediamine when exposed under energetic electrons, just like conditions similar to cold molecular clouds.

[2] Since methanediamine is the simplest molecule to contain the N-C-N moiety, it could be a vital intermediate in the abiogenesis of heterocyclic compounds that contain the N-C-N moiety, such as nucleobases.