Triethanolamine (TEA)

CAS Number:

102-71-6

Chemical / IUPAC Name:

2,2′,2′′-Nitrilotri(ethan-1-ol) or Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)amine

Molecular Formula:

C6H15NO3 / N(CH2CH2OH)3

Molecular Weight:

149.19 g/mol

Uses:

A versatile, viscous organic compound that is both a tertiary amine and a triol. It is a key ingredient in many industrial and consumer products due to its ability to act as an emulsifier, pH adjuster, and surfactant.

· Surfactants & Cleaning Products: A crucial component in liquid laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, general cleaners, and degreasers for emulsifying oils and fats.

· Cosmetics & Personal Care: Widely used in shampoos, shaving cream, lotions, and sunscreens to stabilize emulsions, adjust pH, and improve texture.

· Industrial Applications: Used as a grinding aid in cement production, a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids, and an ingredient in paints and inks.

· Other Uses: Serves as a chemical intermediate, a complexing agent in laboratories, and in gas treatment processes.

Origin:

Triethanolamine is produced industrially by the reaction of ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia. This process co-produces monoethanolamine (MEA) and diethanolamine (DEA), with the product ratio controlled by the stoichiometry of the reactants.

What does Triethanolamine do in a formulation?

its primary functions are:

• Emulsifying Agent (stabilizes mixtures of oil and water)
• pH Adjuster / Buffer
• Surfactant
• Corrosion Inhibitor
• Humectant and Viscosity Controlling Agent

Safety Profile:

· Hazard Classification: Generally classified as combustible and an eye irritant (H319). It can cause contact allergy or dermatitis in some individuals.

· Primary Hazards:

  · Combustible Liquid: Flash point of approximately 179°C (354°F).

  · Irritant: Causes serious eye irritation.

· Safety Precautions: Use with adequate ventilation and wear eye/face protection. OSHA's permissible exposure limit (PEL) is set at 5 mg/m³ as an 8-hour time-weighted average.

Technical profile: