C2H8N2O

C2H8N2O is the chemical formula for 2-aminoethanol, also commonly known as monoethanolamine (MEA) or ethanolamine. It is an organic chemical compound that is both a primary amine and a primary alcohol. This dual functionality makes it a versatile building block in chemistry. In its pure form, it is a colorless, viscous liquid with an ammonia-like odor. It is miscible with water, ethanol, and methanol.

2-aminoethanol finds widespread industrial applications. It is used as a precursor in the synthesis of various chemicals, including detergents, surfactants, and pharmaceuticals. A significant use is in the petroleum refining industry for the removal of acidic gases like hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide from natural gas and refinery streams, a process known as gas sweetening. It is also utilized in the production of emulsifiers, corrosion inhibitors, and as a pH adjuster in cosmetics and personal care products.

The compound's reactivity stems from its amine and hydroxyl groups. The amine group can participate in reactions typical of amines, such as salt formation with acids, while the hydroxyl group behaves like an alcohol, undergoing esterification and etherification. 2-aminoethanol is considered a moderately strong base. It is a readily available and relatively inexpensive chemical, contributing to its extensive industrial use.