Diethanolamine (DEA) is a colorless organic liquid with an ammonia-like odor and is classified as a diamine alcohol. In its pure form, it is a colorless solid. Like other amines, DEA is a weak base and exhibits the water-affinity properties of alcohols, making it soluble in water. Since natural gas contains acidic compounds such as hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide, which can cause corrosion, these compounds must be removed before the gas enters the pipeline. Diethanolamine has been known as a popular sweetening agent since the 1960s. It is also used as a surfactant and corrosion inhibitor. The advantage of using diethanolamine over other amine compounds is that it does not produce by-products such as COS and CS2, and it offers energy savings. To produce ethanolamines, ammonia solution, recycled ethanolamines, and ethylene oxide are continuously and intermittently fed into the reaction system. Under simple conditions, MEA, DEA, and TEA are obtained simultaneously. The production rate of each amine can vary depending on the correct choice of the NH3/EO ratio and the recycled amines from other stages.
Technical Characteristics
| Chemical Formula | C4H11NO2 |
| Other names | 2,2′-Azanediyldi(ethan-1-ol), Bis(hydroxyethyl)amine, N,N-Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amine, 2,2′-Dihydroxydiethylamine, β,β’-Dihydroxydiethylamine, Diolamine, 2-[(2-Hydroxyethyl)amino]ethanol, 2,2′-Iminobisethanol, Iminodiethanol, Di(2-hydroxyethyl)amine, bis(2-Hydroxyethyl)amine, 2,2′-Iminodiethanol, |
| CAS Number | 111-42-2 |
| Molecular weight | 105 gr/mole |
| Boiling point | 271 °C |
| Melting point | 28 °C |
| Appearance | Colorless crystals (in pure form( |
Applications
– Gas sweetening
– Surfactant and anti-corrosion
– Textile Industry
– Production of detergents
– Cosmetics industry
– Pharmaceutical industry
Environmental impact of DEA
Diethanolamine (DEA) can pose a risk if released into the environment. It is water-soluble and can degrade water quality and negatively impact aquatic ecosystems if released into water sources. It can also change the pH of water due to its alkaline nature and be harmful to living organisms. In soil, it can also act as a pollutant and negatively impact plant growth and soil organisms. In general, the improper use and disposal of diethanolamine can cause environmental pollution and therefore must be carefully managed and controlled.
Safety Measures and Regulations for Handling DEA
Diethanolamine is a flammable substance and contact with skin and eyes should be strictly avoided. Its storage warehouses should be properly ventilated. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
Packing
Diethanolamine can be packed in IBC tanks, ISO tanks, or drums depending on its volume, and form.