Mono Ethanolamine, often abbreviated as MEA, is a versatile organic compound with the chemical formula C2H7NO. It is a colorless, viscous liquid with an odor resembling ammonia. MEA is a primary amine compound that contains both amine (-NH2) and alcohol (-OH) functional groups, making it valuable in various industrial applications.

One of the primary uses of MEA is in the production of surfactants and detergents. Due to its amphiphilic nature (having both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties), it is employed in formulations to enhance the wetting, emulsifying, and foaming properties of cleaning and personal care products. MEA also finds applications in the textile industry, where it is used in fabric softeners and dyeing processes.

MEA is a key component in the chemical process known as gas sweetening, where it is used to remove acidic gases, particularly hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon dioxide (CO2), from natural gas and refinery streams. This process helps improve the quality of natural gas and reduces its corrosiveness. Additionally, MEA is utilized as a corrosion inhibitor and pH regulator in various industrial systems.

In the realm of pharmaceuticals, MEA serves as a building block for the synthesis of certain drugs, and it is also used in the manufacture of herbicides and fungicides. Its versatile properties make it an essential compound in several industries, from chemicals to petrochemicals.