N-Butyldiethanolamine (CAS: 102-79-4, hereafter referred to as BDEA) is a commonly used multifunctional auxiliary agent. The industrial product is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with an ammonia odor, miscible with water in any proportion, soluble in organic solvents, and widely used in both water-based and oil-based industrial formulations.

Structurally, BDEA contains two hydroxyl groups, providing excellent hydrophilicity. In water-based formulations, it forms extensive hydrogen bonds, enhancing product stability under both high and low temperatures. With its low VOC content, it aligns with the development direction of sustainable chemistry. Additionally, due to the presence of a tertiary amine nitrogen atom, BDEA exhibits alkalinity, offering neutralization capacity in formulations. It serves as a neutralizer and dispersant in water-based paints and coatings, helping to balance the formulation’s pH, ensuring better pigment dispersion and enhancing coating stability.

The nitrogen and oxygen atoms in the BDEA molecule can coordinate with metal surfaces to form a protective film, effectively inhibiting metal corrosion (particularly for ferrous metals). Therefore, in lubricants and fuels, it can be used as part of an additive package to prevent metal oxidation and degradation. It is widely applied in metalworking fluids, cooling water systems, fuels, and lubricants.

In the polymer field, BDEA possesses both catalytic and reactive functions. In the production of rigid polyurethane foams, it can catalyze foaming and gelation reactions, while its hydroxyl groups also participate in polymerization, becoming part of the polyurethane network. This helps reduce odor and volatiles in the final product. It can also act as a crosslinking promoter in coatings such as epoxy and polyurethane, improving hardness, wear resistance, and service life through reactions with resins.

Furthermore, BDEA is used in various industries, including oilfield extraction, soap making, dyes, pesticides, and adhesives. Leveraging its low VOC and alkaline properties, it neutralizes acidic gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) during natural gas and petroleum extraction, providing antioxidant effects and protecting metal components in fluid systems. It can serve as a precursor for quaternary ammonium salt-type cationic surfactants and nonionic surfactants. Its derivatives are widely used in shampoos, conditioners, and fabric softeners to provide softening and antistatic effects, and can also be employed in the synthesis of pesticide precursors.

As a mature industrial additive, BDEA features a well-established production process, consistent quality, and reliable supply.

BaisChem With its own R&D, production, and quality control teams, operates a fully integrated production line and offers comprehensive technical support. Our product breaks foreign monopolies and meets leading international standards, having earned strong approval from clients worldwide—making BDEA a dependable choice.