Monomethylethanolamine (MMEA)

Monomethylethanolamine is largely used as an intermediate in the manufacture of antihistamines such as
diphenhydramine hydrochloride or for local anesthetics. It is also used in a number of cathodic electrodeposition
coating systems. As a secondary amine, MMEA is used to chain-extend high MW polyepoxides. MMEA also has
applications in textile treating. MMEA is used as a brightening agent in the dyeing of polyester/cotton blends.
Mixtures of MMEA, dimethylethanolamine and methyldiethanaolmine salts of long-chain alkyl phosphates form
antistatic agents for non-cellulosic, hydrophobic textile materials. MMEA can be reacted with methylmethacrylates
to form the polyimid. Polymers produced from the methacrylates are useful as antistatic agents, soil conditioners,
electrically conducting materials, paper auxiliaries and flocculating agents. Other suggested uses are textile
softeners, pH control, and epoxy curing agents and photographic image developing.

Monomethylethanolamine is available in bulk and in 55-gallon drums.

• In order to maintain the high degree of purity with which MMEA is manufactured and shipped, the following storage and handling considerations are recommended:
• Dry Inert Gas Blanket: This product should be stored under a dry inert gas blanket such as nitrogen to minimize contamination resulting from contact with air and water.
• Materials of Construction: Clean carbon steel is satisfactory as a material of construction for storage tanks and transfer systems, provided adequate precautions are observed to guard against rust contamination. In those cases where additional precautions are needed to preserve low color, stainless steel or aluminum should be used. Aluminum should not be used at elevated temperatures. Copper or alloys containing copper should be avoided. Carbon steel centrifugal pumps are satisfactory. Polypropylene or Teflon is the recommended gasket material. Nitriles such as Buna N or Viton should be avoided. Storage Temperature: MMEA freezes at approximately 24°F and may need heating unless stored inside.
• Spills or Leaks: Eliminate all sources of ignition in case of spills or leaks. Spills should be removed by absorbent materials or by contained water washing.