Definition and Uses :
Diethanolamine, often abbreviated as DEA or DEOA, is an organic compound. Pure diethanolamine is a white solid at room temperature, but tends to absorb water and is usually encountered as a colorless, viscous liquid when supercooled. Diethanolamine is a multifunctional secondary amine and a diol. Like other organic amines, diethanolamine acts as a weak base. DEA is soluble in water, reflecting the hydrophilic character of the secondary amine and hydroxyl groups. Amides prepared from DEA are also frequently hydrophilic.
The reaction of ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia produces the first ethanolamine:
Cı 2 H 4 O + NH 3 H → 2 NCH 2 , CH 2 , OH
It reacts with the second and third equivalents of ethylene oxide to give DEA and triethanolamine:
Cı 2 H 4 O + H 2 NCH 2 CH 2 OH → HN (CH 2 CH 2 OH) 2
Cı 2 H 4 O + HN (CH 2 , CH 2 , OH) 2 , N (CH → 2 , CH 2 , OH) 3
Diethanolamine (DEA) and DEA-related substances are organic substances that act as emulsifiers to produce foam and bubbles in cosmetics. These ingredients can also be used to adjust the pH of a product. When discussing the use of DEA and DEA-related ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products, it is important to understand that there are several different substances, although this is just one of them. First, DEA itself is rarely used in products. When it is used, it is added in small amounts to make sure the product is not harsh when applied to your skin (it adjusts the acidity). DEA is often combined with other substances and converted into a new compound that is no longer chemically identical to DEA. This "chemical reaction" results in a new substance that is very stable and does not decompose easily. Cocamide DEA is an example of such a chemical. It should be noted that DEA and DEA derivatives are used in cosmetics and personal care products as well as other products.