Because of their distinctive chemical properties, ethanolamines, a versatile category of organic chemicals, are widely used in a variety of sectors. They are distinguished by the presence of both alcohol and amine functional groups in their molecular structure and consist of three major isomers: monoethanolamine (MEA), diethanolamine (DEA), and triethanolamine (TEA). The simplest of the three, monoethanolamine (MEA), stands out for its hygroscopic nature and ability to dissolve in water, making it a vital component in sectors such as gas filtration, detergents, and personal care products. MEA is frequently used in gas sweetening operations, especially in the removal of hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide from natural gas streams. With two hydroxyl groups, diethanolamine (DEA) has good solvent characteristics and is largely used in the manufacturing of surfactants, corrosion inhibitors, and herbicides. It is used in a variety of industries, including textile processing, metalworking fluids, and as an intermediary in the production of agrochemicals. Triethanolamine (TEA), which has three hydroxyl groups, has both amine and alcohol properties, making it useful in a variety of applications. TEA is primarily utilized in cosmetics and medicines, as well as as an emulsifier in the manufacture of polishes, detergents, and other surface-active substances. It is a common ingredient in cosmetic products and medicinal formulations due to its characteristics as a pH balancer and emulsifying agent. Despite their ubiquitous use, ethanolamines can offer health and safety risks. Exposure to these chemicals, particularly through inhalation or skin contact, can cause respiratory tract or skin irritation. To mitigate potential dangers, enterprises working with ethanolamines must implement suitable handling, storage, and ventilation methods. Ongoing research focuses on improving ethanolamine efficiency and investigating its applications in emerging industries such as renewable energy, medicines, and nanotechnology. To reduce environmental effect, scientists are studying novel synthesis methods and enhancing the sustainability of manufacturing processes. Ethanolamines' versatility and broad applications continue to make them important molecules in a variety of industrial sectors, while current improvements strive to further harness their potential in novel ways, assuring both efficacy and safety in their use.
