Monoethanolamine (MEA)

Product Overview

Monoethanolamine (MEA), also known as Ethanolamine or 2-Aminoethanol, is a bifunctional chemical compound combining the properties of amines and alcohols. This Technical Grade MEA appears as a colorless, viscous liquid with a mild ammonia-like odor. It is a critical component in industrial gas treating (amine treating) for the removal of carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide from gas streams. Its high alkalinity and solubility make it an effective building block for detergents, textile chemicals, and metalworking fluids.

Alliance Chemical supplies MEA with strict quality controls to ensure consistent assay levels and low impurity profiles. This consistency is essential for manufacturers requiring precise stoichiometry in chemical synthesis or reliable performance in closed-loop gas scrubbing systems. The product is available in pack sizes ranging from 1 gallon for laboratory use to 330-gallon totes for bulk processing.

Key Properties

• Chemical Name: Monoethanolamine (MEA)
• CAS Number: 141-43-5
• Chemical Formula: C₂H₇NO
• Appearance: Colorless, viscous liquid
• Molar Mass: 61.08 g/mol
• Boiling Point: 170°C (338°F)
• Specific Gravity: 1.012 at 20°C
• Solubility: Miscible in water, alcohol, and acetone
• Flash Point: 85°C (185°F) Closed Cup
• Assay: Technical Grade (typically >99%)

Common Applications

• Gas Treating (Amine Sweetening): Primary solvent used in scrubbers to absorb acid gases (CO₂ and H₂S) from natural gas and refinery process streams.
• Surfactant Production: Reacts with fatty acids to form ethanolamides, which function as foam boosters and stabilizers in industrial detergents and cleaning formulations.
• Wood Preservation: Acts as a carrier and fixative for copper-based wood preservatives, enhancing penetration and stability.
• Chemical Synthesis: Serves as a feedstock for the production of ethylenediamine, chelating agents, and pharmaceuticals.
• pH Control: utilized as an alkalizing agent in water treatment and steam cycles to prevent corrosion in pipelines and boilers.

Safety Precautions

Monoethanolamine is corrosive and requires careful handling. Operators should utilize appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including chemical-resistant gloves (Butyl rubber or Neoprene), splash goggles, and face shields. Ensure work areas are well-ventilated to avoid inhalation of vapors.

Store in a cool, dry location in containers made of stainless steel or HDPE. MEA is hygroscopic; keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption which can degrade performance. In the event of skin or eye contact, rinse immediately with copious amounts of water and seek medical attention. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive emergency response and disposal guidelines.

Benefits

High Absorption Capacity – Efficiently removes acid gases in industrial scrubbing processes.
Versatile Reactivity – Dual functional groups allow for broad application in chemical synthesis.
Bulk Availability – Scalable supply options from pails to bulk totes support large-scale manufacturing.

Related Products

• Monoethanolamine (MEA) ACS Grade
• Denatured Alcohol 190 Proof 3A
• Denatured Alcohol 200 Proof 3A