Monoethanolamine (MEA)

CAS Number:

141-43-5

Chemical / IUPAC Name:

2-Aminoethanol

Molecular Formula:

C2H7NO / HO-CH2-CH2-NH2

Molecular Weight:

61.08 g/mol

Uses:

A colorless, viscous, and highly hygroscopic organic compound that is both a primary amine and a primary alcohol. This bifunctional nature makes it a highly reactive and versatile chemical intermediate with several key industrial applications:

· Gas Treatment: The largest industrial use is as a scrubbing agent for removing acidic gases like carbon dioxide (CO?) and hydrogen sulfide (H?S) from natural gas, refinery gas, and synthesis gas streams (a process called gas sweetening or amine scrubbing).

· Chemical Production: A crucial raw material for manufacturing surfactants, emulsifiers, and polishes used in detergents and personal care products. It is also used to produce ethyleneamines.

· Cosmetic & Personal Care: Functions as a pH adjuster, emulsifier, and corrosion inhibitor in various formulations.

· Other Applications: Used in agrochemicals, textile processing, and as a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids.

Origin:

Monoethanolamine is produced on an industrial scale by reacting ethylene oxide (EO) with aqueous ammonia. The reaction yields a mixture of ethanolamines (MEA, DEA, TEA), which are then separated by distillation.

What does Monoethanolamine do in a formulation?

its primary functions are:

• Chemical Intermediate / Raw Material (for surfactants, emulsifiers)
• Alkalinity Source / pH Regulator
• Corrosion Inhibitor
• Acid Gas Absorbent / Scrubber
• Emulsifying Agent
• Solvent

Safety Profile:

· Hazard Classification: Corrosive, causes severe skin burns and eye damage. Also classified as flammable and toxic if ingested.

· Primary Hazards:

  · Corrosive: Contact with skin, eyes, or mucous membranes causes severe chemical burns.

  · Flammable: Flash point of 93°C (200°F). Vapors can form explosive mixtures with air.

  · Toxic: Harmful if inhaled or swallowed.

· Safety Precautions: Handle with extreme care. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and face shield. Ensure good ventilation. Avoid contact with acids, as the reaction is exothermic. It readily absorbs carbon dioxide from the air.

Technical profile: