Monoethanolamine (MEA), also widely recognized as 2-aminoethanol or ethanolamine, is a fundamental organic chemical compound with the chemical formula HOCH2CH2NH2 (C2H7NO). Identified by CAS Registry Number 141-43-5, this bifunctional molecule is unique for possessing both a primary amine and a primary alcohol group. At room temperature, MEA typically presents as a colorless to pale yellow, viscous liquid, characterized by a distinctive, albeit unpleasant, ammonia-like odor and strong hygroscopicity. Its molecular weight is approximately 61.08 g/mol.

Key physical and chemical properties underscore MEA's industrial utility. It boasts a melting point around 10.3°C (50.5°F) and a boiling point near 170°C (338°F), indicating its stability across a range of temperatures. With a density of approximately 1.012 to 1.019 g/cm³ at 20°C, MEA is readily miscible in water, alcohols, and various organic solvents, enhancing its versatility in solution-based applications. The flash point, crucial for safety and handling, is typically around 93°C (200°F) using a closed cup method. As a weak base, its pH in a 100g/l aqueous solution at 20°C is approximately 12.1, and its acidity coefficient (pKa) is 9.50 at 25°C. These properties make MEA an indispensable component in a multitude of industrial processes.

Industrially, Monoethanolamine is primarily produced through the controlled reaction of ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia. This process yields not only MEA but also its higher substituted derivatives, diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA). The precise ratio of these products can be carefully managed by adjusting the stoichiometry of the reactants, allowing for targeted production to meet specific industrial demands.

The applications of Monoethanolamine are remarkably diverse, spanning numerous sectors due to its reactive amine and hydroxyl functionalities. One of its most significant uses is in gas stream scrubbing. Aqueous solutions of MEA are widely employed in amine treaters to efficiently remove acidic gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from natural gas, petroleum gas, and flue gas. This process is critical for environmental compliance and gas purification. The ability of MEA to ionize dissolved acidic compounds, making them more soluble, enables effective removal and regeneration of the scrubbing solution.

Beyond gas treatment, MEA serves as a vital chemical intermediate. It is a fundamental feedstock in the synthesis of a broad spectrum of products, including detergents, emulsifiers, polishes, and various pharmaceuticals. It also functions as a corrosion inhibitor, a solvent, a dye intermediate, a rubber accelerator, and a surface-active agent. Its derivatives find applications as plasticizers, rubber vulcanizing agents, emulsifying agents, whitening agents, and dyeing fabric mothproof agents. In the realm of biological significance, MEA molecules are crucial building blocks for life, forming a component in cellular membranes as phosphatidylethanolamine, an important phospholipid. Furthermore, it acts as a pH regulator in cosmetics and is used for alkalinization of water in power plant steam cycles to control corrosion.

NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is a dedicated manufacturer and supplier of high-purity Monoethanolamine (MEA) for global industrial markets. Committed to stringent quality control, our industrial-grade MEA consistently meets demanding specifications, ensuring reliable performance across all applications. For those looking to buy or purchase Monoethanolamine, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. offers competitive price structures and tailored supply solutions. Our extensive production capacity and commitment to excellence make us a preferred partner for industries seeking a dependable MEA source. We welcome inquiries for specific product details and bulk ordering options to meet diverse industrial requirements.