DMA vs. DMA 12/14: Which Amine Should You Order?

An inquiry that says “Please quote DMA” leaves a supplier with a basic question: which amine? DMA commonly refers to dimethylamine. DMA 12/14 appears in trade listings for C12–14 alkyldimethylamine. The names share three letters, but the full names and CAS numbers identify two distinct materials. webbook.nist.gov

How the two names map to the chemistry

The third group bonded to nitrogen explains the distinction. Dimethylamine has a hydrogen in that position. C12–14 alkyldimethylamine has a long alkyl group. Published processes illustrate where each feedstock fits. Dimethylamine can be used to produce DMF, while a blend of C12 and C14 tertiary amines can be used to produce an amine oxide surfactant. webbook.nist.gov

Write the quote request in one clear line

For dimethylamine, give the full name and CAS number, then specify whether you need the anhydrous material or an aqueous solution. If you need a solution, include the target concentration and unit. For C12–14 alkyldimethylamine, give the full name and CAS number, then state the required grade or attach your incoming material specification. |

A purchasing team sourcing feedstock for an amine oxide line could write:

Please quote C12–14 alkyldimethylamine, CAS 84649-84-3, for amine oxide production. Please include the proposed grade and a representative certificate of analysis.

Use the same full product name on the quotation and purchase order, and check it against the supplier’s product documents before ordering. When contacting China Amines Co., Limited, include your required quantity, preferred packaging, and destination so the quote can be prepared for the material you intend to buy.

Technical references

• NIST Chemistry WebBook — Dimethylamine
• ECHA — Amines, C12–14-alkyldimethyl
• EP0054427B2 — Preparation of DMF from dimethylamine and carbon monoxide
• US9085515B2 — Continuous process to make amine oxide