Monoethylamine (MEA), also known as ethylamine, is a foundational primary aliphatic amine with the chemical formula $C_2H_5NH_2$. It appears as a colorless, highly volatile liquid or gas at standard temperature and pressure, characterized by a pungent, ammonia-like odor. Commercially, MEA is synthesized primarily through the reductive amination of ethanol or the catalytic reaction of ammonia with ethene. As a strong base and a potent nucleophile, it serves as a critical building block in organic synthesis. MEA is completely miscible with water, Alcohol, and ethers, allowing for versatile application in both aqueous and organic media. Due to its low boiling point (16.6°C) and high vapor pressure, it is typically handled as a pressurized anhydrous liquid or as an aqueous solution (often 70%). Industrially, it is indispensable for manufacturing herbicides, rubber chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, though it requires stringent safety measures due to its extreme flammability and corrosive nature.
**High Nucleophilic Reactivity:** MEA acts as an efficient building block for introducing ethylamino groups into complex molecules via alkylation and acylation.
**Superior Solubility:** It is completely miscible with water and most polar organic solvents, offering excellent formulation flexibility.
**Strong Basicity:** With a $pK_b$ of 3.33, it serves as an effective acid neutralizer and catalyst in various chemical processes.
**Versatile Physical Forms:** Available in anhydrous and aqueous forms to meet specific industrial process requirements and safety constraints.
**High Purity:** Industrial-grade MEA is typically manufactured at high purity levels to ensure consistency in sensitive pharmaceutical and agrochemical syntheses.
**Molecular Weight:** 45.08 g/mol.
**Boiling Point:** 16.6°C (61.9°F) at 760 mmHg, necessitating pressurized storage for the anhydrous form.
**Flash Point:** Highly flammable; aqueous solutions (70%) have a flash point of approximately -17°C (0°F).
**Vapor Pressure:** 115 kPa at 20°C, indicating high volatility.
**Chemical Properties:** Reacts vigorously with strong oxidizers, acids, and organic nitro compounds. It is corrosive to copper, tin, and zinc alloys.
**Dissociation Constant:** $pK_a$ of the conjugate acid is approximately 10.67 at 25°C.
**Odor Threshold:** Extremely low (0.2–0.5 ppm), allowing for rapid leak detection.
• Electrical and electronics
• Connectors, switches, PCB housings, terminal blocks
• Automotive
• Under-hood components, interior assemblies, cable conduits
• Wire and cable
• Insulation layers, sheathing, jacketing materials
• Construction
• Plastic fittings, conduits, insulation panels
• Consumer appliances
• Enclosures, adapters, plugs, casings
• Industrial components
• Fiber-reinforced composites, flame-retardant masterbatches
• Compatible polymers
• PA6, PA66
• PBT, PET
• PE, PP
• Blends and copolymers requiring halogen-free flame retardancy
Have a question or need a quote? Our team is here to help with product details, pricing, and global delivery options.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
