Diethanolamine (DEA)
Diethanolamine (often abbreviated as DEA or DEOA) is a white solid at room temperature. It contains a secondary amine and two alcohol groups. DEA is mainly used to produce surfactants, detergents, cosmetics, shampoos, textile processing, and gas purification.
ArChem provides DEA and other raw chemical materials such as MEA, Soda ash, and LABSA for various industrial applications. Additionally, ArChem provides customers with other chemical products including Nitrocellulose, Nitrocellulose solutions, organic solvents, etc. For further information please contact our technical sales team in ArChem.
What is Diethanolamine (DEA)?
Diethanolamine is an oily, colourless liquid or solid white crystal with the chemical formula HN (CH2CH2OH)2. It is very soluble in water and ethanol, and slightly soluble in ethyl ether and benzene.
Diethanolamine is a secondary amine belonging to the class of ethanolamines. It contains a secondary amine and two alcohol groups. Like other organic amines, diethanolamine acts as a weak base. It is used for gas sweetening and in the manufacture of light-duty detergents.
DEA technical properties
Diethanolamine is mostly used to prepare diethanolamine and diethanolamine salts of long-chain fatty acids that are formulated into soaps and surfactants. Some benefits of DEA include:
- Unique reactions
- Versatility
- Different applications
- Act as amines or alcohols
The chemical and physical properties of ArChem DEA are:
| Molecular Formula | HN (CH2CH2OH)2 |
| IUPAC name | 2-(2-hydroxyethylamino)ethanol |
| Cas Number | 111-42-2 |
| Molecular weight | 105.1 g/mol |
| Density | 1.097 gcm–3 |
| Boiling Point | 268 °C |
| Flashpoint | 176 °C |
| Melting Point | 27 °C |
| Flammability | Combustible |
DEA applications
DEA has different applications in various industries such as detergents, textiles and pharmaceuticals. Some uses of ArChem DEA include:
- Gas sweetening
- Detergents
- Concrete admixtures
- Pharmaceuticals
- Personal care products
- Agriculture
DEA production
Diethanolamine is produced by the reaction of ethylene oxide with excess ammonia.
C2H4O + NH3 → H2NCH2CH2OH
The product of this reaction reacts with a second and third equivalent of ethylene oxide to give DEA.
C2H4O + H2NCH2CH2OH → HN (CH2CH2OH) 2
C2H4O + HN (CH2CH2OH)2 → N(CH2CH2OH) 3
DEA storage
Storage conditions of ArChem DEA are listed below:
- DEA should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- Diethanolamine containers should be tightly sealed when not in use.
- Diethanolamine should be stored away from incompatible materials (strong oxidants and acids).
- Diethanolamine should be stored only in the original containers.
DEA health hazards
When handling DEA, workers should wear appropriate PPE (including gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing). Some of the necessary first-aid measures are described below:
- In case of inhalation, move the affected person to fresh air and keep warm and at rest in a position comfortable for breathing.
- In case of ingestion, rinse mouth thoroughly with water. Give a few small glasses of water or milk to drink. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
- In case of skin contact, immediately flush the skin with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
- In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water. Remove any contact lenses. Continue to rinse for at least 15 minutes and get medical attention.
Operators should avoid contact with the product. Plus, they should wash their hands thoroughly after handling.
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FAQ
What is DEA?
Diethanolamine is an oily, colourless liquid or solid white crystal with the chemical formula HN (CH2CH2OH)2. It is very soluble in water and ethanol, and slightly soluble in ethyl ether and benzene.
What is the price of DEA?
ArChem raw chemical materials can be purchased in a variety of volumes. Depending on your orders, prices are different. For more information about DEA prices, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our technical sales team in ArChem.