DMAPA (3-dimethylaminopropylamine) is a colorless liquid bifunctional amine carrying both a primary and a tertiary amine group on the same molecule; its most common use is as an intermediate in the synthesis of amphoteric and mild surfactants such as cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) found in shampoos and liquid soaps.

What is DMAPA?

DMAPA is a bifunctional aliphatic amine with the formula (CH3)2N(CH2)3NH2. The primary amine group (-NH2) reacts with fatty acids and amides, while the tertiary amine group (-N(CH3)2) is used in quaternization and betainization reactions. This dual reactivity makes DMAPA a versatile building block in surfactant and epoxy-curing chemistry.

At room temperature it is a low-viscosity liquid, fully miscible with water and strongly basic. It is hygroscopic and tends to absorb carbon dioxide from the air, so it is stored in tightly closed containers, ideally under an inert atmosphere.

What is DMAPA used for?

Most of DMAPA's industrial value comes from a single reaction family: it reacts with fatty acids to form an amidoamine, which is then betainized with chloroacetic acid derivatives to yield amphoteric surfactants. Key applications include:

  • Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) and other betaine-type amphoteric surfactants for shampoos, shower gels, liquid soaps and foaming personal-care products.
  • Amidoamines and quaternary ammonium compounds — cationic ingredients in hair conditioners and textile softeners.
  • Raw material for epoxy resin hardeners (curing agents) in coatings and adhesives.
  • Intermediate in flocculants and water-treatment polymers.
  • Synthesis of fuel additives, corrosion inhibitors and certain pharmaceutical intermediates.
YÜZEY AKTİF MADDELER3-(Dimethylamino) Propylamine (DMAPA)DMAPA in the KORKİMYA portfolio is offered at technical purity for surfactant manufacturers.

Its role in the surfactant chain

In CAPB production, DMAPA first reacts with a fatty acid under heat to form the amidoamine, then is betainized with sodium monochloroacetate. The result is an amphoteric surfactant that foams well alongside sulfate surfactants, is gentle to the eyes and boosts viscosity. The purity of DMAPA therefore directly affects the color, odor and free-amine content of the finished betaine.

Safe handling and storage

DMAPA is a corrosive, basic liquid that can cause severe burns to skin and eyes, and its vapor irritates the respiratory tract. Always work with chemical-resistant gloves, face/eye protection and good ventilation, and follow the product's current Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
  • Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
  • Keep away from acids, oxidizers and sources of carbon dioxide.
  • Prefer stainless steel or suitably lined containers over carbon steel.
  • Protect containers from moisture and air contact, as DMAPA is hygroscopic.
What does DMAPA stand for?

DMAPA stands for 3-dimethylaminopropylamine, a bifunctional aliphatic amine with the formula (CH3)2N(CH2)3NH2.

Why is DMAPA used to make cocamidopropyl betaine?

Because DMAPA carries both a primary amine group that reacts with a fatty acid to form an amidoamine and a tertiary amine group needed for betainization, making it the key intermediate in CAPB synthesis.

Is DMAPA hazardous?

Yes, DMAPA is corrosive and irritating, and can cause skin and eye burns and respiratory irritation. It can be handled safely with PPE, ventilation and adherence to its SDS.

Is DMAPA soluble in water?

Yes, DMAPA is fully miscible with water in all proportions and forms a strongly basic solution.