Amines
REACH
n-methylethanolamine
CAS Number
109-83-1
EC Number
203-710-0
Abbreviation
MMEA
What is n-methylethanolamine?
N-Methylethanolamine (CAS 109-83-1), abbreviated MMEA, is a secondary amino alcohol used in chemical manufacturing as a pH regulator, buffering agent and reactive intermediate.
Where is n-methylethanolamine used?
- Coatings and adhesives: neutralizing agent
- Waterborne resin systems: improves dispersion stability and film formation
- Personal care: pH adjuster in emulsions and creams, with mild humectant properties
- Pharmaceuticals: synthesis intermediate and buffering component in topical preparations
- Industrial gas treatment and sealants: absorbent for acid gases and reactive modifier for polymer crosslinking
- Its secondary amine and hydroxyl groups make it a building block for surfactants, corrosion inhibitors and specialty polymers.
Good to know: Technical grade is the standard commercial offering; pharmaceutical-grade material meeting USP or BP specifications is available for regulated manufacturing.
Commercial specifications
- Drum and IBC quantities; bulk tanker options for larger volumes
Other Names (Synonyms)
N-Monomethylethanolamine|N-Monomethylaminoethanol|N-Methylmonoethanolamine|N-Methylaminoethanol|N-Methyl-N-(beta-hydroxyethyl)amine|N-Methyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)amine|N-Methyl-2-hydroxyethylamine|N-Methyl-2-ethanolamine|MMEA
What are the physical properties of n-methylethanolamine?
Melting Point -4.5 °C
Boiling Point 155-156 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density 0.937 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point 163 °F
Appearance viscous colourless or light yellow liquid
Color Clear colorless to slightly yellow
Form Liquid
Water Solubility miscible
Vapor Pressure 0.5 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.439(lit.)
pH 13.6 (100g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P -0.91 at 25℃
How is n-methylethanolamine classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS05· Corrosive GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H227 Combustible liquid
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H312 Harmful in contact with skin
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary Statements
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to n-methylethanolamine?
HS Code 29221980
UN Number 2735
ADR Class 8
Packing Group II
Storage Class 8A - Combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany) 1