[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of ethanolamine, ethanolamine for short

Ethanolamine Properties

Ethanolamine (Ethanolamine), molecular formula C2H7NO, is an organic compound belonging to the class of amino alcohols. It is a colorless to light yellow viscous liquid with an ammonia-like odor. Ethanolamine is hydrophilic, soluble in water, ethanol and ether, and has a strong alkaline and hygroscopic. Its molecule contains hydroxyl (-OH) and amino (-NH2) two functional groups, so that it has the ability to participate in acid-base reactions and hydrogen bond formation at the same time, so it is widely used in industrial and chemical reactions.

Ethanolamine use

As chemical raw materials

Ethanolamine is the basic raw material for the production of a variety of chemical products. For example, ethanolamine is an important intermediate in the production of surfactants, which can react with fatty acids to produce fatty acid amides, and is widely used in products such as detergents and emulsifiers. Ethanolamine can also be reacted with ethylene oxide to form ethoxylated derivatives for use in cosmetics and personal care products. Ethanolamine is also an important intermediate for the production of herbicides, pesticides and other pesticides.

for gas purification

In the natural gas and petrochemical industries, ethanolamine is used to absorb acid gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide. Due to its basicity, ethanolamine can effectively react with these acid gases to form soluble salts, thereby achieving a gas purification treatment. This application not only improves the quality of the gas, but also reduces the corrosion of the acid gas to the equipment.

In medicine and cosmetics applications

Ethanolamine and its derivatives are used as intermediates in the pharmaceutical field, for example in the synthesis of analgesics, antihistamines, local anesthetics, etc. It is also widely used in cosmetics, such as in skin care products and shampoos, for pH adjustment and as an emulsifier.

Ethanolamine upstream and downstream raw materials

Upstream raw materials

Ethanolamine is produced primarily by reacting ethylene oxide with ammonia. Ethylene oxide is an important petrochemical product, which is obtained by the oxidation of ethylene. Ammonia is synthesized by the Harper method under high temperature and high pressure by nitrogen and hydrogen. The price and supply of these two raw materials directly affect the production cost and market price of ethanolamine.

Downstream Products

Ethanolamine has a wide range of downstream products, including various surfactants, pesticides, pharmaceutical intermediates, and cosmetic raw materials. In particular, triethanolamine (TEA), diethanolamine (DEA) and other derivatives are important raw materials for the production of detergents, cosmetics and industrial cleaning agents. Demand fluctuations in the downstream market will also affect the production and marketing strategy of ethanolamine.

Ethanolamine storage method

Ethanolamine is highly hygroscopic and corrosive, so specific measures are required to ensure safety and quality during storage. Generally, ethanolamine should be stored in a dry, cool and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Containers shall be sealed, corrosion resistant materials such as stainless steel, aluminum or glass lined tanks. Attention should be paid to the corrosiveness of ethanolamine to some plastics when using plastic containers. The storage area should also be equipped with anti-leakage facilities and emergency treatment devices to prevent environmental pollution and personal injury caused by accidental leakage.

Safety and environmental impact

Although ethanolamine is widely used, its safety and environmental impact cannot be ignored. As a corrosive substance, ethanolamine can cause irritation to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract, and long-term exposure may cause health problems. Therefore, in the production, transportation and use of the process, must strictly abide by the safety procedures, wear appropriate protective equipment. The discharge of ethanolamine wastewater also needs to be strictly controlled to avoid pollution to water bodies and soil.

Market prospects and trends

With the increasingly stringent environmental regulations and the continuous development of downstream industries, ethanolamine market prospects. Especially in the fields of gas purification, pesticides and surfactants, the demand for ethanolamine is expected to maintain a steady growth. Technological progress and optimization of production processes help to reduce production costs, improve product purity and quality, thereby enhancing market competitiveness. In the future, with the advancement of green chemistry and sustainable development, the application field of ethanolamine is expected to be further expanded, and the market demand will also show a diversified development trend.

As an important organic chemical raw material, the properties and uses of ethanolamine determine its key position in many industries. Through the rational allocation of upstream and downstream raw materials and scientific storage methods, the safe production and efficient utilization of ethanolamine can be ensured. With the progress of technology and the change of market demand, the application prospect of ethanolamine will be broader and the development potential is huge.