Monoethanolamine (MEA) – Price & Bulk Supply

Monoethanolamine (MEA) is a versatile industrial chemical widely used in natural gas treatment, detergent manufacturing, chemical processing, metalworking fluids, and specialty chemical formulations. Its ability to neutralize acids, absorb carbon dioxide, and react with other chemical compounds makes it an important raw material across several industries. However, industrial buyers need more than competitive pricing. Monoethanolamine purity, water content, packaging quality, and reliable delivery directly influence production efficiency and purchasing costs. Choosing the correct MEA grade helps manufacturers maintain consistent processes, improve raw material management, and reduce quality-related problems.

Basekim supplies Monoethanolamine for industrial customers seeking reliable chemical sourcing, competitive bulk quotations, and international export solutions. Whether you need MEA 99% for gas processing, chemical manufacturing, or industrial cleaning formulations, understanding its technical properties and applications helps you select the most suitable product.

What Is Monoethanolamine (MEA)?

Monoethanolamine, also known as MEA, ethanolamine, 2-aminoethanol, or 2-hydroxyethylamine, is an organic chemical compound that contains both an amino group and a hydroxyl group.

Its molecular formula is C₂H₇NO, and its CAS number is 141-43-5.

Manufacturers produce Monoethanolamine through the controlled reaction of ethylene oxide and ammonia. This industrial process can also produce Diethanolamine (DEA) and Triethanolamine (TEA), depending on reaction conditions.

Pure MEA appears as a clear, colorless, hygroscopic liquid with an ammonia-like odor. It mixes completely with water and provides useful alkaline and reactive properties.

At temperatures below approximately 10°C, Monoethanolamine may solidify. Therefore, manufacturers and distributors must consider storage temperatures when planning transportation and handling.

The chemical offers several important characteristics:

• Effective acid-neutralizing properties

• High solubility in water

• Strong affinity for acidic gases

• Reactive primary amine functionality

• Compatibility with selected industrial chemical formulations

• Suitability for gas absorption and chemical synthesis

These characteristics make MEA an important intermediate in industrial production.

Monoethanolamine Technical Specifications

Industrial buyers should review Monoethanolamine specifications before selecting a supplier or confirming a commercial order.

The following table presents typical technical properties and representative specifications for commercial Monoethanolamine 99%.

Specifications may vary according to production grade and manufacturer. Buyers should request a current Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA) to confirm the quality of the supplied material.

Monoethanolamine Uses and Industrial Applications

Monoethanolamine serves several industrial purposes because it combines alkaline properties with useful chemical reactivity.

Different industries use MEA for acid-gas removal, neutralization, chemical synthesis, and specialty formulations.

1. Natural Gas Treatment

Natural gas processing represents one of the most important industrial applications of Monoethanolamine.

Gas-treatment facilities use aqueous MEA solutions to remove acidic gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), from suitable gas streams.

During the absorption process, the MEA solution captures acid gases inside an absorber column. The system then transfers the rich solution to a regeneration unit, where heat helps release the absorbed gases.

After regeneration, the process returns the lean amine solution to the absorber for reuse.

This continuous operation makes MEA valuable in properly designed industrial gas-treatment systems.

Important operating factors include:

• MEA concentration in the circulating solution

• Carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide concentrations

• Absorption temperature and pressure

• Regeneration energy requirements

• Corrosion management

• Solvent degradation

• Filtration and foaming control

High-purity Monoethanolamine supports more predictable solvent preparation. However, operators must also maintain appropriate process conditions and corrosion-control procedures.

2. Detergents and Cleaning Products

Detergent manufacturers use MEA as a neutralizing agent and chemical intermediate in selected cleaning formulations.

The chemical reacts with fatty acids to form monoethanolamine salts that can contribute to surfactant systems.

Industrial cleaning formulators also use MEA to adjust alkalinity and achieve specific formulation requirements.

Common applications include:

• Industrial degreasers

• Hard-surface cleaners

• Specialty detergents

• Metal-cleaning formulations

• Industrial maintenance chemicals

MEA helps manufacturers control pH and develop selected cleaning systems. However, formulators must evaluate chemical compatibility, safety, and finished-product performance before use.

3. Chemical Manufacturing

Chemical manufacturers use Monoethanolamine as a reactive intermediate in producing industrial compounds.

Its primary amino group allows it to participate in different chemical reactions, while its hydroxyl group provides additional functionality.

Manufacturers may use MEA to produce surfactants, specialty intermediates, selected resins, and processing chemicals.

Companies evaluating different neutralizing agents can also explore Triethanolamine 85% for applications that require different viscosity, alkalinity, or chemical performance.

However, these chemicals are not interchangeable. Each ethanolamine has a different molecular structure, reactivity, and application profile.

4. Metalworking Fluids

Metalworking-fluid manufacturers use MEA in selected water-based formulations to control alkalinity and neutralize acidic ingredients.

When formulators combine MEA with suitable additives, it can contribute to corrosion-inhibition systems.

Industrial applications include:

• Cutting fluids

• Grinding fluids

• Machining lubricants

• Industrial maintenance products

• Specialty metal-processing chemicals

The final formulation must provide suitable corrosion protection, material compatibility, and operational safety.

5. Textile and Leather Processing

Textile and leather manufacturers use alkaline chemicals during several treatment and processing stages.

MEA can support selected cleaning, conditioning, dye-processing, and pH-adjustment formulations.

Its excellent water solubility makes it suitable for certain aqueous industrial systems.

Manufacturers should select the required concentration according to process conditions, additive compatibility, and finished-product specifications.

6. Monoethanolamine in Agricultural Chemicals

Agricultural chemical manufacturers use ethanolamine chemistry to produce certain salts of acidic active ingredients.

These reactions can help formulators develop liquid products with suitable solubility and processing characteristics.

However, manufacturers must evaluate the specific active ingredient, formulation requirements, and applicable agricultural regulations.

Industrial-grade Monoethanolamine does not automatically qualify for every agricultural application.

7. Personal Care and Specialty Formulations

Certain specialty chemical and personal care formulations use Monoethanolamine derivatives or appropriately controlled ethanolamine chemistry.

Possible applications involve pH adjustment and neutralization in permitted formulations.

However, manufacturers must distinguish pure Monoethanolamine from compounds such as cocamide MEA, which have different chemical identities.

Cosmetic producers must also evaluate ingredient purity, nitrosamine-related concerns, and applicable regulatory restrictions.

Industrial-grade MEA should not enter cosmetic manufacturing without appropriate product qualification.

Monoethanolamine 99% – Purity and Quality Considerations

Monoethanolamine 99% is a common commercial grade for industrial applications that require consistent chemical properties.

However, purity alone does not determine product suitability.

Manufacturers should also evaluate water content, color, density, and potential impurities.

Why Does Monoethanolamine Purity Matter?

In chemical manufacturing, impurities can affect reaction consistency, product color, and downstream processing.

In gas-treatment systems, contamination and solvent degradation can contribute to operational difficulties.

Water content also affects the amount of active chemical that buyers receive.

For example, 1,000 kg of Monoethanolamine with 99% purity contains at least 990 kg of MEA by mass.

Therefore, industrial buyers should compare product quality and active chemical content alongside the quoted price.

Monoethanolamine Price per Ton – Factors Affecting MEA Cost

Monoethanolamine price depends on raw material costs, production availability, industrial demand, packaging, and international transportation.

Manufacturers produce ethanolamines using ethylene oxide and ammonia. Consequently, changes in these feedstock markets can influence production costs.

Several factors affect the commercial price of MEA:

1. Product Purity

Higher purity requirements and tighter impurity specifications can increase production and quality-control costs.

2. Order Quantity

Bulk purchasing may reduce packaging and handling expenses per metric ton.

3. Packaging Type

Drums, IBC containers, and bulk tank shipments have different transportation and handling costs.

4. Destination Market

Freight rates, customs duties, port expenses, and inland transportation affect the final landed price.

5. Market Availability

Production schedules, supply disruptions, and regional demand can influence commercial quotations.

6. Delivery Terms

FOB, CFR, CIF, and other agreed Incoterms determine how buyers and sellers allocate transportation costs and risks.

Monoethanolamine Bulk Price vs Drum Price

Bulk MEA purchases can offer better unit economics for companies with suitable storage and unloading facilities.

However, bulk transportation may not provide the lowest total cost for smaller orders.

Manufacturers should compare the complete delivered price, including packaging, transportation, storage, handling, and unloading.

A large gas-processing facility may prefer regular bulk shipments, while a specialty chemical manufacturer may select drums to simplify inventory management.

For an accurate Monoethanolamine price quotation, buyers should specify the required purity, order quantity, packaging type, destination, and delivery conditions.

Monoethanolamine Wholesale and Bulk Supply

Industrial manufacturers need consistent MEA specifications and reliable delivery arrangements to maintain production schedules.

Wholesale purchasing can improve procurement efficiency when customers establish appropriate quality standards and delivery plans.

Before placing a bulk order, buyers should evaluate:

• Monthly or annual MEA consumption

• Required purity and water content

• Available warehouse and tank capacity

• Preferred packaging

• Transportation requirements

• Product documentation

• Import regulations

• Expected delivery schedules

A structured purchasing plan helps manufacturers manage raw material availability and avoid unnecessary storage costs.

Monoethanolamine Packaging and Export Options

Suppliers commonly package Monoethanolamine in industrial drums, IBC containers, and suitable bulk transport equipment.

Buyers should select packaging according to their order quantity, receiving facilities, and handling capabilities.

Exact filling weights, packaging materials, and shipment availability require confirmation before purchase.

Monoethanolamine Storage Requirements

MEA absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, so operators should keep containers tightly sealed.

Storage facilities should maintain suitable temperatures and use compatible construction materials.

Because Monoethanolamine may solidify near 10°C, buyers in colder climates should consider heating and material-transfer requirements.

Operators must also prevent contamination and follow the current Safety Data Sheet.

Industrial companies that purchase additional chemical raw materials may also consider products such as Mono Ethylene Glycol for separate manufacturing and processing applications.

However, Mono Ethylene Glycol and Monoethanolamine perform different chemical functions. MEG primarily serves as a glycol-based industrial intermediate and fluid component, while MEA acts as an alkaline amine and reactive chemical intermediate.

Monoethanolamine vs Diethanolamine vs Triethanolamine

Monoethanolamine (MEA), Diethanolamine (DEA), and Triethanolamine (TEA) belong to the ethanolamine family.

Although manufacturers produce these compounds through related chemical processes, each offers different physical and chemical characteristics.

MEA generally offers faster carbon dioxide absorption kinetics than DEA and TEA under comparable conditions.

However, actual gas-treatment performance depends on process design, solvent concentration, operating temperature, and regeneration conditions.

Manufacturers should select ethanolamines according to their technical requirements rather than treating these chemicals as direct substitutes.

How to Choose the Right Monoethanolamine Grade

Choosing the correct MEA grade requires a clear understanding of the intended application.

For gas-treatment facilities, buyers should consider solvent purity, operating conditions, and corrosion management.

For detergent production, formulators should evaluate color, purity, neutralization performance, and chemical compatibility.

For chemical synthesis, manufacturers may prioritize water content, impurity limits, and reaction consistency.

Important Documents Before Purchasing Monoethanolamine

Industrial buyers should request the following technical documents:

Technical Data Sheet (TDS): Provides typical physical properties and commercial specifications.

Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS): Explains chemical hazards, protective equipment, safe handling, first aid, and storage requirements.

Certificate of Analysis (COA): Confirms the laboratory results for the supplied production batch.

These documents help purchasing teams evaluate product quality and compare commercial offers.

Monoethanolamine MSDS – Safety and Handling

Monoethanolamine is corrosive and can cause serious skin burns and eye damage.

Industrial users must follow the current Safety Data Sheet and implement appropriate handling procedures.

Essential safety measures include:

• Wear suitable chemical-resistant gloves.

• Use appropriate eye and face protection.

• Provide adequate ventilation.

• Avoid inhaling vapors or mists.

• Keep containers tightly closed.

• Separate MEA from incompatible materials.

• Install suitable emergency washing facilities.

• Train workers in spill response and first aid.

Facilities should also evaluate equipment compatibility before selecting storage tanks, pipelines, pumps, and seals.

Environmental Considerations

Industrial facilities should prevent uncontrolled MEA releases into drainage systems, soil, and waterways.

Operators must follow applicable environmental regulations and the instructions in the current SDS.

Wastewater-treatment teams should assess chemical concentration and treatment compatibility before disposal.

Monoethanolamine TDS – Technical Documentation

A Monoethanolamine Technical Data Sheet helps manufacturers assess the product before purchasing.

A complete industrial MEA TDS should include:

• Chemical name and CAS number

• Purity specification

• Water content

• Appearance

• Color limits

• Density and specific gravity

• Boiling and melting points

• Relevant analytical test methods

• Packaging and storage recommendations

Buyers should compare the TDS with the batch Certificate of Analysis to verify compliance with their purchasing requirements.

Monoethanolamine Supplier and Exporter – Basekim

Selecting a reliable Monoethanolamine supplier helps manufacturers control raw material quality, maintain production schedules, and manage international purchasing costs.

Basekim supplies industrial MEA for customers seeking bulk chemical sourcing, technical product information, and export quotations.

Customers can discuss purity requirements, packaging preferences, order quantities, and delivery arrangements according to their operational needs.

For international orders, buyers should confirm product availability, specifications, country of origin, shipping documents, and transportation conditions before finalizing their purchases.

Request a Monoethanolamine Price Quotation

To receive an accurate commercial quotation, buyers should provide the following information:

Clear purchasing requirements help the supplier prepare a commercial offer based on the actual shipment conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monoethanolamine

1. What is Monoethanolamine used for?

Manufacturers use Monoethanolamine in natural gas treatment, detergent production, chemical synthesis, metalworking fluids, specialty formulations, and selected agricultural chemicals. Its alkaline and reactive properties support several industrial processes.

2. What is the CAS number of Monoethanolamine?

Monoethanolamine has the CAS number 141-43-5. Its chemical formula is C₂H₇NO, and its molecular weight is approximately 61.08 g/mol.

3. What is the difference between MEA and Monoethanolamine?

MEA is the common industrial abbreviation for Monoethanolamine. Both names identify the same chemical compound.

4. What is the purity of industrial Monoethanolamine?

Commercial industrial-grade MEA commonly has a purity of at least 99%. Buyers should verify the exact purity and impurity specifications through the supplier’s TDS and batch COA.

5. What is the Monoethanolamine price per ton?

Monoethanolamine prices vary according to raw material costs, purity, order quantity, packaging, delivery destination, and market availability. Buyers should request a current quotation based on their purchasing requirements.

6. What is the pH of Monoethanolamine?

Monoethanolamine produces alkaline aqueous solutions. The pH depends on the solution concentration and temperature, so technical comparisons should specify the testing conditions.

7. What is the density of Monoethanolamine?

Monoethanolamine has a density of approximately 1.018 g/cm³ at 20°C. Actual density may vary slightly according to temperature and product purity.