"Ethanolamines" is a chemical compound with the formula C2H7NO. The phonetic transcription of this word in IPA is eθənəʊl'əmiːnz. The first syllable "eθ" represents the digraph "th" in "eth," which is a prefix indicating two carbon atoms bonded together. The next syllable "ənəʊl" is pronounced as "uh-NOHL," which means a hydroxyl group (OH) attached to the ethyl moiety. The final syllable "əmiːnz" represents the amine (NH2) group, which replaces the second hydroxyl group in ethanolamines.
Ethanolamines are a group of organic chemical compounds that consist of an amine group (-NH2) attached to a hydroxyethyl group (-CH2CH2OH). They are derived from ethylene oxide, an organic compound made from ethylene, through the process of alkylation (chemically attaching) with ammonia or amine compounds. Ethanolamines are colorless, viscous liquids with a slightly ammoniacal odor.
Ethanolamines have a wide range of applications in various industries. They are primarily used as intermediates in the production of surfactants, which are compounds that reduce the surface tension of liquids and allow them to mix more easily. Due to their detergent-like properties, ethanolamines are commonly found in cleaning products, such as laundry detergents, liquid soaps, and household cleaners.
In addition to surfactants, ethanolamines are also used as solvents, emulsifiers, and corrosion inhibitors. They find applications in the agricultural industry as herbicides and fungicides. Ethanolamines also have uses in the cosmetic and personal care industry, as they can be found in products like shampoos, conditioners, shaving creams, and lotions.
While ethanolamines have numerous industrial uses, it is important to handle them with caution. These compounds can be corrosive and may cause skin and eye irritation. Proper safety measures should be taken when working with ethanolamines, including the use of protective equipment like gloves and goggles.
The word "ethanolamines" is derived from a combination of two components: "ethanol" and "amines".1. Ethanol: The term "ethanol" refers to a colorless, volatile liquid used as a solvent, a fuel, and in biofuel production. The word "ethanol" itself comes from the Latin word "aethēr" meaning "pure spirit". "Aethēr" was later adapted into the French word "éther" and eventually transformed into "ethanol" in English.2. Amines: The term "amines" refers to a group of organic compounds derived from ammonia (NH3) by replacing one or more hydrogen atoms with alkyl or aryl groups. The word "amines" is derived from the suffix "-amine", which itself originates from the Latin word "ammonia" and the Greek word "ammos", both referring to "ammonium chloride".