2-(Methylamino)ethanol (CAS 109-83-1)

2-(Methylamino)ethanol, also known as N-methylethanolamine, is an organic compound characterized by the presence of both amino and hydroxyl functional groups attached to an ethyl backbone. This bifunctional nature makes it a versatile chemical in various industrial and research applications, primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of chemicals and polymers. Structurally, it is a colorless, hygroscopic liquid with a mild amine odor, and it is soluble in water and most organic solvents, which enhances its utility in different chemical processes. In research, 2-(Methylamino)ethanol is particularly valuable in the study of surfactants and corrosion inhibitors. Its molecular structure allows it to interact with acids and bases, making it an effective agent for neutralizing acidic or basic environments, a property extensively explored in materials science. Additionally, its ability to form stable complexes with metals is exploited in the formulation of metalworking fluids and coatings, where it acts to improve film integrity and corrosion resistance. Further, in organic synthesis, it serves as a building block for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes, where its dual functionality enables the formation of various chemical bonds and rings, facilitating complex molecular architectures. The compound′s role in enhancing the solubility and reactivity of other compounds also makes it a subject of interest in the development of novel organic synthesis methodologies and catalysis studies.