Diethanolamine
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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.
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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.
PRODUCT KEY FEATURES
- 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
- 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
- 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)
- 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
- 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)
- 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
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
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