Monoethanolamine (MEA, CAS 141-43-5) is the most widely used alkanolamine, serving gas sweetening, surfactants, detergents, agrochemicals, cement additives and pharmaceutical intermediates. This article provides an indicative price reference by grade, explains the main factors that move MEA prices, and gives practical guidance for buyers.
What Is Monoethanolamine?
Monoethanolamine, also called 2-aminoethanol or ethanolamine, has the molecular formula C2H7NO and a molecular weight of 61.08 g/mol. It is a colorless, viscous liquid with a mild ammonia-like odor, completely miscible with water and most alcohols. MEA is produced industrially by reacting ethylene oxide with ammonia, a process that also yields diethanolamine and triethanolamine; the product distribution is controlled by the ammonia-to-ethylene-oxide ratio. MEA is a weak base and reacts readily with acids, carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, which underpins its role in gas treatment.
Price Reference by Grade
The table below gives indicative price ranges for common MEA grades. These figures are reference points only; actual transaction prices vary with region, order volume, logistics, purity and market conditions.
| Grade | Typical Purity | Packaging | Indicative Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial grade | ≥ 99% | Drums / IBC | USD 750 - 950 / MT |
| Industrial grade | ≥ 99% | ISO tank | USD 700 - 900 / MT |
| Pharmaceutical / high-purity grade | ≥ 99.5% | Drums / IBC | USD 900 - 1,200 / MT |
Bulk shipments in ISO tanks usually carry a lower unit price than drummed goods because packaging and handling costs are reduced. High-purity and pharma-grade MEA commands a premium for tighter specifications and additional quality control.
Factors That Influence MEA Prices
Feedstock costs: ethylene oxide and ammonia are the main raw materials, so fluctuations in upstream energy and chemical prices directly affect MEA.
Supply and demand balance: regional plant shutdowns, capacity additions and seasonal demand from the gas and construction industries create price cycles.
Grade and specification: purity, color, water content and trace impurity limits determine the price tier.
Packaging and logistics: drum, IBC and ISO-tank options differ in cost; freight distance and hazardous-goods handling also matter.
Order size and contract terms: long-term contracts and large volumes typically obtain better pricing than spot orders.
Key Applications of MEA
Gas treatment: MEA removes hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide from natural gas, refinery gas and flue streams.
Surfactants and detergents: MEA neutralizes fatty acids to form soaps and acts as a pH buffer and emulsifier in cleaners.
Rubber and tire industry: used as an accelerator component and as a corrosion inhibitor that extends equipment service life.
Cement and construction: MEA is a grinding aid and set-controlling additive in cement production.
Pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals: serves as an intermediate and solvent in drug and pesticide synthesis.
Textile and metalworking: used in dyeing auxiliaries, cutting fluids and corrosion-protection formulations.
Buying Considerations for Industrial Buyers
When purchasing MEA, verify the specification against your process needs: minimum purity, water content, color and the permitted impurity profile. Request a certificate of analysis for each batch and check the packaging integrity on arrival. Because MEA is corrosive to copper and its alloys, confirm the storage tank material is compatible, with carbon steel or stainless steel being typical. Store drums in a dry, ventilated area away from acids and oxidizers, and follow the safety data sheet for handling, since MEA can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do monoethanolamine prices change so often?
MEA prices track the cost of ethylene oxide and ammonia and respond to regional supply-demand shifts, so they move with the petrochemical cycle. Checking current quotes from multiple suppliers is the best way to gauge the market.
Is there a difference between MEA and ethanolamine?
MEA is one member of the ethanolamine family. The family also includes diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA). The names are often used loosely, so confirm the exact product and purity with the supplier.
What purity of MEA is needed for gas sweetening?
Standard industrial-grade MEA of at least 99% purity is normally used for gas treatment. The solution is typically diluted with water to the concentration specified by the process design.
Can MEA be shipped in ISO tanks?
Yes. ISO tanks are a common and economical mode for bulk MEA shipments. The tank must be suitable for corrosive and alkaline liquids, and the shipment must comply with applicable transport regulations for the region.
How should MEA be stored?
Store MEA in tightly sealed containers made of compatible materials, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from acids, strong oxidizers and sources of heat. Avoid contact with copper and its alloys, which MEA corrodes.
Is pharmaceutical-grade MEA worth the premium?
Only if your application requires it. Pharma-grade MEA meets tighter impurity limits and additional quality documentation. For industrial uses such as gas treatment or cement additives, standard industrial grade is normally sufficient.
