Diethanolamine
Diethanolamine is a colorless to pale yellow, viscous liquid with a mild ammonia-like odor. It is a secondary amine and diol, widely used in various industrial, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. DEA is highly soluble in water and many organic solvents. It acts as an intermediate in the synthesis of surfactants, emulsifiers, corrosion inhibitors, and pharmaceuticals. It is valued for its alkalinity, emulsifying properties, and ability to form stable complexes with fatty acids.
Diethanolamine
Primary Uses
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Emulsifier and Surfactant Precursor: Used in producing DEA-based surfactants like cocamide DEA and lauramide DEA, which act as foam boosters, emulsifiers, and thickening agents in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers.
- pH Adjuster: Helps adjust and buffer pH in personal care formulations to ensure product stability and skin compatibility.
- Hair Conditioning Agents: DEA derivatives condition hair and improve texture in shampoos and styling products.Industrial Applications
- Gas Treatment and Purification: Used in gas sweetening processes to remove acidic gases like hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon dioxide (CO2) from natural gas and refinery streams through amine gas treating.
- Corrosion Inhibitors: Formulates corrosion inhibitors in oil and gas pipelines, cooling water systems, and metalworking fluids.
- Textile & Leather Industry: Functions as a neutralizing agent and emulsifier in dyeing, tanning, and finishing processes.Chemical Intermediate
- Synthesis of Surfactants & Detergents: DEA is a key raw material for manufacturing various amidoamines, fatty acid amides, and other surfactants.
- Pharmaceutical Intermediates: Used in the synthesis of drugs, antiseptics, and agricultural chemicals.Agriculture
- Herbicide Formulations: Employed as an intermediate or surfactant in herbicide and pesticide formulations to improve spreadability and efficacy.
Secondary Uses
- Gas and Oil Industry
- Utilized as a neutralizing agent and corrosion inhibitor in refinery processes and enhanced oil recovery.Water Treatment
- Acts as a chelating and pH control agent in industrial water treatment systems.Paints and Coatings
- Used as an additive in paints, varnishes, and coatings to improve emulsification and stability.Household Cleaning Products
- Incorporated in detergents and cleaning formulations as a foam stabilizer and pH adjuster.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): 2,2'-Iminodiethanol
- Common/Trade Name: Diethanolamine, DEA
- CAS Number: 111-42-2
- HS Code: 2922.49.00
- Molecular Formula: C4H11NO2
- Synonyms:
- DEA
- 2,2'-Iminodiethanol
- Diethylene glycol monoamine
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid
- Odor: Mild ammonia-like
- Melting Point: 28–30°C (solidifies near room temperature)
- Boiling Point: 269°C (at 760 mmHg)
- Density: Approx. 1.09 g/cm³
- Solubility: Miscible with water and many organic solvents
- pH (10% aqueous solution): 11.0–12.0 (alkaline)
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; reacts with strong oxidizers and acids
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Corrosive to skin and eyes; harmful if inhaled or swallowed
- Toxicity: Can cause skin irritation and sensitization; long-term exposure linked to carcinogenicity concerns in some jurisdictions
- Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL 5 mg/m³ (as aerosol)
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from acids and oxidizers
- Container Type: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or steel drums with proper linings
- Shelf Life: 1–2 years under proper storage
- Handling Precautions: Use PPE; avoid inhalation and contact with skin or eyes
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- REACH Registered
- Listed under various national chemical inventories (TSCA, DSL, EINECS)
- Restricted in some cosmetic applications due to carcinogenicity concerns (check local regulations)
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Moderately toxic to aquatic life; avoid environmental discharge
- Persistence: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Bioaccumulation: Low potential
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Classified as possibly carcinogenic by IARC (Group 2B) under certain exposure conditions
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required:
- Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Lab coat or protective apron
- Respiratory protection if ventilation is inadequate
Handling Guidelines:
- Avoid inhalation of vapors and aerosols
- Prevent skin and eye contact
- Use local exhaust ventilation or work in a fume hood
- Handle away from acids, oxidizers, and heat sources
Storage Measures:
- Keep container tightly closed and upright
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances
- Avoid exposure to moisture and ignition sources
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke during use
- Use good industrial hygiene and housekeeping
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if breathing difficulty develops
- Skin Contact: Wash affected area with plenty of soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical attention
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; do not induce vomiting; seek emergency medical care
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; emits toxic fumes when heated or burned
- Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide
- Special Precautions: Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
- Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and other toxic gases
Related products
Amphoteric Surfactants
Amphoteric surfactants are unique surface-active agents that can act as either anionic or cationic surfactants depending on the pH of the solution. These molecules contain both acidic (carboxyl or sulfonic) and basic (amine or quaternary ammonium) functional groups, giving them high versatility, mildness, and compatibility with other surfactants. Amphoteric surfactants are widely used in personal care, household cleaning, industrial applications, pharmaceuticals, and specialty formulations where low irritation and effective cleansing are critical. Common examples include Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Lauryl Betaine.
Basic Laundry Detergent
Basic Laundry Detergent is a cleaning agent formulated primarily for washing textiles such as clothes, linens, and other fabrics. It typically contains surfactants, builders, enzymes, and other additives that work synergistically to remove dirt, stains, and odors from fabrics. Designed for household and industrial use, laundry detergents help restore fabric cleanliness and freshness while maintaining fiber integrity. Basic laundry detergents can be in powder, liquid, or tablet form, and are formulated to perform in various water hardness conditions and temperatures.
Booster Emulsifier
Booster Emulsifier is a specialized surfactant-based additive formulated to enhance the stability, texture, and uniformity of emulsions in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical formulations. It acts by reducing surface tension between immiscible liquids such as oil and water, facilitating the formation of stable, homogeneous emulsions. Booster Emulsifier is valued for its ability to improve product appearance, extend shelf life, and enhance sensory properties such as mouthfeel and creaminess. It is typically available as a liquid or powder and compatible with a wide range of ingredients.
Cocamino Propyl Betaine Desmocol
Cocamino Propyl Betaine Desmocol is a mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil fatty acids and amino acids. It appears as a clear to slightly hazy liquid with a faint coconut-like odor. CAPB is widely used in personal care and household cleaning products for its excellent foaming, cleansing, and conditioning properties. Being a zwitterionic surfactant, it is compatible with anionic, cationic, and nonionic surfactants, enhancing the mildness and stability of formulations. The 30% active solution is easy to handle and incorporate in various cosmetic and detergent products. It functions as a foam booster, viscosity builder, and anti-irritant agent, making it a versatile ingredient in mild formulations.
Cocodiethanolamide (CDEA)
Cocodiethanolamide (CDEA) is a viscous, amber to dark brown liquid derived from the reaction of coconut oil fatty acids with diethanolamine. It is a non-ionic surfactant and foam stabilizer commonly used in personal care and cleaning products. CDEA enhances foam quality, viscosity, and skin conditioning properties in formulations. Due to its excellent emulsifying and thickening abilities, it is widely used as a secondary surfactant to boost the performance of primary detergents. It is valued for its biodegradability, mildness, and compatibility with various surfactants and other ingredients in cosmetics and industrial formulations.
Emulsifying Wax Anionic
Emulsifying Wax Anionic is a versatile surfactant blend composed primarily of fatty alcohols (such as cetyl or stearyl alcohol) and anionic surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate. It is designed to stabilize oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions by reducing interfacial tension between water and oil phases. It appears as white to off-white solid flakes or pellets, with a mild fatty odor and is dispersible in water with agitation and mild heat. Known for its excellent emulsification, cleansing, and thickening properties, this emulsifying wax is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, household cleaners, and industrial applications.
Galaxy CAPB
Galaxy CAPB is a high-performance amphoteric surfactant based on Cocamidopropyl Betaine, produced from coconut fatty acids. It appears as a translucent to pale yellow liquid with mild viscosity and a mild coconut-like odor. As a zwitterionic surfactant, it provides exceptional foaming, mildness, and synergistic compatibility with other surfactants, making it ideal for personal care, household, and industrial formulations.
Triethanolamine (TEA)
Triethanolamine (TEA) is a viscous, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild ammonia-like odor. It is a multifunctional organic compound widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications as a pH adjuster, emulsifier, surfactant, and corrosion inhibitor. Triethanolamine neutralizes fatty acids to form soaps and helps stabilize emulsions, making it essential in personal care formulations and various chemical manufacturing processes. Its versatility and compatibility with other ingredients make it a valuable additive in numerous industries.

Preservatives(food)
Flavors
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Oils
Carrier Oills
Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
Laboratory Safety Chemicals
Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
Demulsifiers
Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
Scale Inhibitors(oil)
Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
Dyes and Pigments
Bleaching Agents
Softening Agents
Finishing Agents
Antistatic Agents
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
Fragrances (Cleaning)
Electronic Chemicals
Catalysts
Lubricants
Photographic Chemicals
Refrigerants
Automotive chemicals
Pyrotechnic Chemicals
Biodegradable Surfactants
Bio-based Solvents
Renewable Polymers
Carbon Capture Chemicals
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
Pigments
Solvents(paint)
Specialty Coatings
Binders/Resins
Additives
Driers
Anti-Corrosion Agents
Functional Coatings
Application-Specific Coatings
Leavening Agents
Dough Conditioners
Flour Treatments
Fat Replacers
Decoratives
Preservatives(baking)
Plasticizers & Softeners
Reinforcing Agents
Adhesion Promoters
Vulcanizing Agents
Antidegradants
Blowing Agents
Fillers & Extenders
Accelerators & Retarders![Diethanolamine [C4H11NO2 or (CH2CH2OH)2NH] Amaris Chemicals Diethanolamine [C4H11NO2 or (CH2CH2OH)2NH] Amaris Chemicals](https://amarischemicalsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Diethanolamine-C4H11NO2-or-CH2CH2OH2NH-Amaris-Chemicals.png)