Diglycolamine (DGA, CAS 929-06-6): Properties, Uses, and Safety Guide

Diglycolamine (DGA), also known as 2-(2-aminoethoxy)ethanol with the formula C₄H₁₁NO₂ and CAS 929-06-6, is a clear, viscous liquid with a faint fishy or ammonia-like odor that plays a crucial role in industrial chemistry. As an alkanolamine—a compound blending alcohol and amine traits—DGA acts like a versatile multitool, absorbing gases or curing materials in ways that make it essential for energy, manufacturing, and cleaning sectors. This blog post breaks down DGA's properties, key uses, and safety guidelines, using simple analogies to demystify the tech talk for everyone from chemists to curious readers.

Chemical Properties and Characteristics

DGA is like a sticky syrup that's easy to mix but packs a punch in reactions. Here's a snapshot of its core traits:

Its solubility means it blends seamlessly with water, like sugar in tea, while its basicity (pH around 11) allows it to neutralize acids effectively. DGA's viscosity—thicker than water but pourable—helps in applications where flow control matters. However, its hygroscopic nature (absorbs moisture like a sponge) requires sealed storage to prevent degradation.

Removal of the total organic acid anions from an industrial lean diglycolamine solvent (Image source:ScienceDirect)

Key Uses and Applications

Gas Treatment and Absorption

DGA shines in "sweetening" natural gas, removing acidic gases like CO₂ and H₂S—think of it as a chemical sponge soaking up sour smells from a fridge. In oil refineries and biogas plants, it's used in amine scrubbing processes, often outperforming other amines in high-temperature or high-CO₂ environments due to its thermal stability.

Curing Agent in Polymers and Resins

As a curing agent, DGA hardens epoxy resins and polyurethanes, turning gooey mixtures into tough plastics—like adding hardener to glue for a rock-solid bond. It's common in adhesives, coatings, and rubber manufacturing, where its amine group kickstarts cross-linking reactions.

Surfactants and Cleaning Products

DGA enhances detergents and emulsifiers by improving wetting properties, helping cleaners cut through grease like dish soap tackling oily pans. In metalworking fluids and lubricants, it acts as a corrosion inhibitor, protecting surfaces from rust.

Other Industrial Uses

In dyes, paper chemicals, and even pharmaceuticals, DGA serves as an intermediate, facilitating reactions without stealing the show. Its low vapor pressure makes it safer for high-heat applications compared to more volatile amines.

Safety Guide: Handling and Precautions

DGA isn't a gentle household chemical—it's classified as hazardous, capable of causing severe skin burns, eye damage, and respiratory irritation, much like handling concentrated bleach without gloves. Prolonged exposure may damage organs like the kidneys, liver, or nervous system. Always wear PPE: nitrile gloves, goggles, and protective clothing, as if suiting up for a messy paint job. Work in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods to avoid inhaling vapors. In case of contact, rinse with water for 15 minutes and seek medical help—don't play hero. Store in tightly closed containers away from acids and oxidizers, in cool, dry spots. For spills, absorb with inert material and dispose as hazardous waste, never down the drain, to protect aquatic life.

Market Overview and Availability

The global DGA market is growing, driven by energy sector demands for gas treatment, with major producers in the US (Huntsman), Europe, and Asia. In China, companies like Aure Chemical offer high-purity grades (≥98%) for industrial use. Prices hover around $2-4/kg, depending on purity and volume.

Conclusion

Diglycolamine is a powerhouse chemical, blending properties for gas scrubbing, material curing, and more, but it demands respect through safe handling. Whether purifying fuels or strengthening plastics, DGA's role is like a behind-the-scenes fixer—essential yet often overlooked. For greener alternatives, industries are exploring bio-based amines, but DGA remains a staple. Consult SDS for specific guidance and stay safe!