Ethanolamine

Ethanolamine is a colorless, viscous liquid organic compound that has both a primary amine and a primary alcohol group in its structure, making it bifunctional and chemically versatile. Its chemical formula is C₂H₇NO (NH₂CH₂CH₂OH), and it features an ammonia-like odor.​

Chemical and Physical Properties

Ethanolamine is completely miscible with water, alcohol, and ether.

It is alkaline and acts as a base, making it useful as a pH regulator in various products.

The compound is moderately toxic if ingested in large amounts and can cause irritation upon contact with skin or eyes.​

Boiling point: 338°F (170°C); molecular weight: 61.08.​

Biological and Industrial Uses

Ethanolamine is a key ingredient in many industrial processes as a surfactant, emulsifier, and corrosion inhibitor.

It is used to remove CO₂ and H₂S from natural gas and other gases in gas treatment plants.​

In biochemistry, ethanolamine is a building block of phospholipids such as phosphatidylethanolamine, which are critical components of cell membranes.​

It is also employed in cosmetics and cleaning products for its ability to stabilize emulsions and regulate pH.​

Biological Function and Pathways

Ethanolamine is widely distributed in biological tissues and is a natural breakdown product of certain phospholipids.​

It can be metabolized by the enzyme ethanolamine ammonia-lyase to form acetaldehyde and ammonia.​

Ethanolamine derivatives are involved in biosynthetic pathways for molecules like phosphatidylcholine in cells.​

Ethanolamine’s versatile reactivity and biological relevance make it important in both laboratory and industrial contexts.