Aminoethyl Ethanolamine (AEEA) is an organic aliphatic diamine with basic properties, containing two amine groups (one primary and one secondary) and one hydroxyl group.
It is a derivative of ethanolamines, and due to the presence of multiple functional groups, it is widely used as a humectant, ion-binding agent, chelating agent, and acid gas absorbent.

Chemical Information

Chemical Formula: C₄H₁₂N₂O
Molecular Structure: H₂N–CH₂–CH₂–NH–CH₂–CH₂–OH
Chemical Nature: Tri-functional compound containing two amines and one alcohol group

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Typical Value / Range
Appearance	Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor	Mild amine-like odor
Density (20°C)	1.017 – 1.020 g/cm³
Boiling Point	243 – 244°C
Viscosity (25°C)	120 – 180 cP
pH (10% aqueous solution)	11.5 – 12.0
Solubility	Completely miscible with water and soluble in alcohols
Aminolysis / Deamination	Possible under elevated temperature and specific pH conditions

Applications of Aminoethyl Ethanolamine (AEEA)

Detergent and Personal Care Industries

Moisturizing and emulsifying agent
Intermediate in the synthesis of mild amine-based surfactants
Improves viscosity and skin compatibility

Paints, Inks, and Resin Industry

Crosslinking agent in epoxy resin systems
pH regulator and ionic binder in coatings

Oil, Gas, and Drilling

Absorbent for acidic gases such as CO₂ and H₂S (gas sweetening)
Corrosion inhibitor and descaling additive

Agriculture

Chelating agent in fertilizers and pesticides
Stabilizer in aqueous formulations

Polymer and Pharmaceutical Applications

Reactive intermediate for polyurethane and epoxy resin synthesis
Precursor for pharmaceutical intermediates and chemical additives

Advantages

High reactivity with epoxides and isocyanates
Strong basicity and excellent absorption capacity for acidic gases
Biodegradable with relatively low environmental toxicity
Suitable for skin-contact formulations in controlled concentrations

Limitations

Can irritate skin and eyes upon direct contact
Hygroscopic – readily absorbs moisture from air
Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents
May decompose at high temperatures, releasing nitrogen oxides

Safety and Handling Information

Aspect	Guideline
Skin/Eye Contact	Irritating; use gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing
Inhalation	High concentrations may irritate the respiratory system
Flash Point	124 – 125°C
Storage Conditions	Store in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers in a cool, dry place
Incompatible Materials	Strong oxidizers and strong mineral acids
Environmental Stability	Stable under normal conditions; biodegradable with proper disposal

Summary

Aminoethyl Ethanolamine (AEEA) is a multi-functional aliphatic amine widely used across detergent, polymer, coatings, agricultural, and gas treatment industries.
Its reactivity, strong alkalinity, and multifunctional chemical structure make it a valuable intermediate for producing surfactants, resins, corrosion inhibitors, and gas-absorbing agents.