Ethanolamine is a colorless, transparent, highly hygroscopic viscous liquid with an ammonia odor.It exhibits dual reactivity of primary amine and hydroxyl groups, and is more alkaline than diethanolamine and triethanolamine.It tends to solidify at low temperatures (melting point 10 °C), is flammable, corrosive and irritating, and deteriorates upon absorbing carbon dioxide from air.

1. Gas purification: Removes acidic gases such as CO₂ and H₂S from natural gas and syngas.
2. Surfactants: Production of nonionic detergents, emulsifiers, textile softeners and antistatic agents.
3. Industrial additives: Metal rust inhibitors, cement grinding aids, pH regulators for water-based coatings and ink dispersants.
4. Pharmaceuticals & pesticides: Synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, pesticide emulsifiers and dispersants.
5. Daily chemicals & leather: Cosmetic humectants, leather softeners and raw materials for hair dyes.