Powered by Blogger.


Monoethanolamine for RVs?

I read an article on cleaning the RV roofing. They used this word, (Monoethalomine); good for the removal of tree sap and berry stains. This word does not exist. Would you know the correct spelling or what this product actually is? Barbara (Alpharetta, GA)

Barbara, Monoethanolamine (MEA), is a real word and it is produced by combining ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia. The reaction also produces diethanolamine and triethanolamine. The ratio of the products can be controlled by changing the stoichiometry of the reactants. Note that this reaction is exothermic and that controls are needed to prevent a runaway reaction.

MEA is used in aqueous solutions for scrubbing certain acidic gases or deposits. It is used as feedstock in the production of detergents, emulsifiers, polishes, pharmaceuticals, corrosion inhibitors, chemical intermediates. For example, reacting ethanolamine with ammonia gives the commonly used chelating agent, ethylenediamine.

So that should clear up any confusion you may have! Actually, now I’m even confused! The bottom line, it’s an organic cleaning compound that will not harm EPDM rubber roofs on RVs and is good at removing the harshest of stains, bird droppings and tree sap. It’s usually used in the production of cleaning agents aimed directly at those stains. Here’s what it looks like chemically:



 And just so you don’t think I’m that smart....I found this info on Wikipedia...  




More RV Doctor Resources

e DVD: Do It Yourself RV Care The RV Doctor, Gary Bunzer, shows you how to maintain and care for your RV. This 63-minute DVD was produced in cooperation with the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association. The small price you pay for this will come back to you in all the money you save on your RV maintenance and repairs. Learn more & buy here.

e The RV Owner's Handbook Learn how to perform preventative maintenance and repairs on your RV from RV technical guru Gary Bunzer. Learn about towing with a motorhome, winterizing your RV, holding tank systems, heating systems, water pumps, trailer towing, spring shakedown, water systems and much more. Easy to understand, even for mechanical novices. Learn more & buy here.

Disclaimer:

In all instances, every effort is made to ensure the correctness of all content on the RV Doctor Website. It is imperative that if you choose to follow any instructions or procedures outlined on any page of this website, you must first satisfy yourself thoroughly that neither personal nor product safety will be compromised or jeopardized.

All rights reserved.

If you are in doubt or do not feel comfortable about a procedure, do not continue. Simply call your local RV service facility and make an appointment with them. The advice, recommendations and procedures offered by the RV Doctor are solely those of Gary. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, procedures and recommendations of our sponsors or advertisers.