Diethylamine appears as a clear colorless liquid with an ammonia-like odor. Density 5.9 lb / gal. Flash point -15°F. A respiratory irritant. Corrosive to the eyes and skin. Vapors heavier than air. Toxic oxides of nitrogen produced during combustion.Diethylamine is a secondary aliphatic amine where both N-substituents are ethyl. It is a conjugate base of a diethylammonium.

Mainly used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, dyes, rubber vulcanization accelerators, textile auxiliaries, as well as metal preservatives, emulsifiers and polymerization inhibitors.It is also used as a refining solvent for waxes, an activator for emulsion polymerization of conjugated dienes, and in the preparation of engine antifreezes.