Monoethanolamine (MEA) is a flammable, corrosive, colourless and odourless liquid. It is an organic chemical compound that acts as a weak base in different chemical reactions. Monoethanolamine is produced from the reaction between ammonia and ethylene oxide. This product is used in the manufacture of surface-active agents, emulsifiers, and plasticizing agents.
Monoethanolamine is highly soluble in water, alcohol, and benzene. It reacts with acids to form salts. Keep in mind, Monoethanolamine is moderately toxic. It produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion.
Characterization of Monoethanolamine (MEA)
Monoethanolamine is a versatile organic chemical used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications. Some properties of this substance include:
- Its molar mass is 08 g. mol-1.
- Its melting point is 10 °C.
- It is decomposed at 85 °C.
- Its density is 1.02 gcm–3
Applications of Monoethanolamine (MEA)
Monoethanolamine is a member of the class of ethanolamines that is ethane with an amino substituent at C-1 and a hydroxy substituent at C-2, making it both a primary amine and a primary alcohol. Some uses of MEA include:
- MEA is used in the production of detergents, emulsifiers, corrosion inhibitors, and chemical intermediates.
- MEA is used in the production of chemicals, like ethylenediamine.
- MEA is used in the production of cement, in order to enhance strength and reduce drying time.
- MEA is used in printing inks, in order to control the pH.
- MEA is used as neutralizer agent for anionic emulsifiers in agrochemicals.
Monoethanolamine (MEA) production
Monoethanolamine is also known as Ethanolamine, 2-aminoethanol, and 2-Aminoethan-1-ol. It is produced by reacting ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia. Other products of this reaction are diethanolamine and triethanolamine.
Monoethanolamine (MEA) storage
Monoethanolamine should be handled in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practices. When using MEA, do not eat, drink, or smoke. Plus, it is necessary to wash hands before breaks and at the end of work. MEA storage conditions include:
- MEA should be kept in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- MEA should be kept in tightly closed containers (in stainless steel equipments). It reacts with copper, aluminium, zinc and their alloys.
- MEA is stable under normal conditions, but it is combustible at high temperatures.
- MEA containers may be hazardous when empty since they retain product residues.
Monoethanolamine (MEA) health hazards
Monoethanolamine vapor may cause irritation to the respiratory tract. Symptoms may include sore throat, coughing, and headache. Exposure to higher concentrations may cause pulmonary irritation, and kidney and liver damage.
Monoethanolamine ingestion may cause mucosal burns of the mouth, abdominal pain, and vomiting. In case of ingestion, never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Call a physician immediately.
Monoethanolamine skin contact may cause irritation, redness, burns, and pain. In case of skin contact, immediately flush skin with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and call a physician immediately.
Monoethanolamine eye contact may cause severe irritation, burns, redness, and blurred vision. In case of eye contact, flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and get medical attention immediately.
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FAQ
What precautions should be taken when using Monoethanolamine (MEA)?
Monoethanolamine should be handled in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practices. When using MEA, do not eat, drink, or smoke. Plus, it is necessary to wash hands before breaks and at the end of work.
How much does Monoethanolamine (MEA) cost per kg?
ArChem Monoethanolamine (MEA) can be purchased in a variety of volumes. Depending on your orders, Prices are different. For more information about Monoethanolamine (MEA) price, please contact our technical sales team in ArChem.
What is the formula of Monoethanolamine (MEA)?
MEA is a chemical compound with the molecular formula HOCH2CH2NH2.
What is the CAS number of Monoethanolamine (MEA)?
The CAS number of Monoethanolamine (MEA) is 141-43-5.
What is the HS code for Monoethanolamine (MEA)?
29221110
What is Monoethanolamine (MEA)?
Monoethanolamine (MEA) is an organic chemical compound, containing both a primary amine and a primary alcohol. This product is used in the manufacture of surface-active agents, emulsifiers, and plasticizing agents.