Dimethylethanolamine
Dimethylethanolamine is an organic compound with the formula 2NCH2CH2OH. It is bifunctional, containing both a tertiary amine and primary alcohol functional groups. It is a colorless viscous liquid. It is used in skin care products. It is prepared by the ethoxylation of dimethylamine.It is a precursor to other chemicals, such as the nitrogen mustard 2-dimethylaminoethyl chloride. The acrylate ester is used as a flocculating agent.
Related compounds are used in gas purification, e.g. removal of hydrogen sulfide from sour gas streams.The bitartrate salt of DMAE, i.e. 2-dimethylaminoethanol -bitartrate, is sold as a dietary supplement. It is a white powder providing 37% DMAE.
