2-Dimethylaminoethanol (CAS 108-01-0)

2-Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), also known as deanol or dimethylethanolamine (DMEA), is an amino alcohol. It is formed as the main product in the amination of ethylene glycol by dimethylamine on alumina supported copper in a continuous fixed-bed reactor. 2-Dimethylaminoethanol is considered a putative precursor of acetylcholine and has been extensively studied for its effects as a skin-firming and anti-wrinkle agent. It has also been investigated for its organic additive properties, particularly in relation to deposition and anti-reflective properties of porous CaF2. In terms of its chemical properties, 2-Dimethylaminoethanol has a clear colorless liquid appearance with a fishlike odor. It has a flash point of 105°F and is less dense than water, with vapors heavier than air. Combustion of 2-Dimethylaminoethanol produces toxic oxides of nitrogen. It serves as a precursor in the production of various other chemicals.Dimethylethanolamine belongs to the class of organic compounds called 1,2-aminoalcohols, characterized by an alkyl chain with an amine group bound to the C1 atom and an alcohol group bound to the C2 atom. It exists primarily as a solid and is highly soluble in water. Dimethylethanolamine is weakly acidic, essentially neutral based on its pKa value. Within cells, it is predominantly found in the cytoplasm. It is worth noting that dimethylethanolamine is potentially toxic.