Monoethanolamine

Monoethanolamine (CAS 141-43-5), commonly abbreviated as MEA and also known as Olamine in cosmetic and pharmaceutical contexts, is a bifunctional compound combining amine and alcohol groups. It serves as a pH regulator, surfactant intermediate, and gas treatment agent across multiple industries. Its ability to absorb acidic gases and neutralize formulations makes it a high-volume industrial chemical.

Demand is high across refining, personal care, and water treatment sectors. In natural gas and refinery operations, MEA is the active absorbent in amine gas sweetening units, selectively removing H₂S and CO₂ from process streams. Personal care formulators use it to neutralize carbomer-based gels and adjust pH in creams, lotions, and hair products. In water treatment, MEA functions as a corrosion inhibitor and pH buffer in boiler and cooling water systems.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as an alkalizing agent in topical and oral formulations, where controlled pH stability is a critical quality parameter. MEA is supplied as a clear liquid, typically at 99% purity. This purity level is standard for industrial and technical-grade applications. Pharmaceutical and personal care buyers can source USP and BP grades with tighter purity and impurity specifications.

Bulk supply is standard in drums, IBCs, and isotanks for high-volume industrial procurement. These logistics options ensure reliable delivery for large-scale manufacturing and chemical processing facilities worldwide.