Diethanolamine (DEA)
Diethanolamine (DEA) is an amino alcohol used extensively across several high-impact industries. Chemically represented as HN(CH2CH2OH)2, it is a bifunctional compound that combines the properties of amines and alcohols. At room temperature, pure DEA is a white crystalline solid, but it is frequently handled as a viscous, colorless liquid due to its tendency to supercool or when slightly diluted. It is highly soluble in water and ethanol. Moonarc Chemicals provides industrial-grade DEA optimized for gas stripping, surfactant manufacturing, and as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agricultural chemicals.
Applications
- Gas Treating: Removal of H2S and CO2 from natural gas and refinery process streams.
- Surfactants: Production of diethanolamides used in soaps, detergents, and cosmetics.
- Agrochemicals: Intermediate in the manufacture of herbicides such as Glyphosate.
- Metalworking Fluids: Used as a corrosion inhibitor and buffering agent in cutting oils.
- Textiles: Softening agent and lubricant in textile processing.
- Polyurethanes: Used as a cross-linker in the production of flexible polyurethane foams.
Industries served
- Oil & Gas Gas Processing
- Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Agrochemicals
- Metalworking & Machinery
- Textiles & Leather
- Polyurethanes & Plastics
Key benefits
- Excellent buffering capacity for pH control.
- High reactivity due to both secondary amine and dual hydroxyl functional groups.
- Effective corrosion inhibition for ferrous metals.
- Versatile chemical intermediate for a wide range of industrial syntheses.
- Proven efficiency in acid gas absorption processes (DEA process).
Technical specifications
| Assay (Purity) | ≥ 99.0% |
| Moisture (Water Content) | ≤ 0.2% |
| Color (Pt-Co / APHA) | ≤ 15 |
| Monoethanolamine (MEA) Content | ≤ 0.5% |
| Triethanolamine (TEA) Content | ≤ 0.5% |
| Specific Gravity @ 30/20°C | 1.088 – 1.095 |
| Refractive Index @ 30°C | 1.473 – 1.476 |
Storage
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse. Keep containers tightly closed. DEA is hygroscopic and sensitive to CO2 and O2; nitrogen blanketing is recommended. Maintain storage temperature above 30°C if liquid handling is required, or provide drum heating facilities. Store away from strong acids and oxidizing agents.
Handling
Handle in a well-ventilated area. Use PPE including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Do not breathe vapors/mists. DEA is hygroscopic; ensure containers are tightly sealed when not in use. Wash thoroughly after handling.
Transport
Not regulated as a dangerous good for land transport (ADR/RID) in standard quantities. However, if shipped as a liquid at elevated temperatures or depending on concentration/regional rulings (e.g., US DOT RQ), it may be regulated. Class 9 for North American shipments in bulk. Always verify current IMDG/IATA status based on packaging.
Packaging options
220kg HDPE or Lacquered Steel Drums · 1000kg IBC Totes · ISO Tanks (Bulk)
Frequently asked questions
Documents
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