2-[2-(Dimethylamino)ethoxy]ethanol is an organic compound with the molecular formula C<sub>6</sub>H<sub>15</sub>NO<sub>2</sub> and is a liquid at room temperature. Dimethylaminoethoxyethanol is polyfunctional, having a tertiary amine, ether and hydroxyl functionality. Like other organic amines, it acts as a weak base.
Dimethylaminoethoxyethanol is manufactured by reacting dimethylamine and ethylene oxide. Other methods are also available producing streams rich in the substance which then need to be further purified.
As dimethylaminoethoxyethanol is weakly basic, it has been studied as a method of absorbing Greenhouse gases and in particular carbon dioxide.
Dimethylaminoethoxyethanol is used extensively in surfactants which have also been evaluated as corrosion inhibitors. Surfactants prepared are usually cationic and may also be used as a biocide. This is particularly important for oilfield applications against Sulfate-reducing microorganisms.
The material has other uses which include:
The toxicity of dimethylaminoethoxyethanol has been extensively studied.