Triethanolamine

Chemical Name (IUPAC): 2,2',2''-Nitrilotriethanol

Common/Trade Name: Triethanolamine (TEA)

CAS Number: 102-71-6

HS Code: 2922.49.00

Synonyms: TEA, Tri-hydroxyethylamine

Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Viscous liquid

Color & Odor: Colorless to pale yellow; mild ammonia-like odor

Boiling Point: 335 °C (decomposes)

Melting Point: 20 °C

Density: 1.125 g/cm³ at 20 °C

Solubility: Miscible with water and alcohol

pH: Alkaline (typically 10.5–11.5 in 1% solution)

Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Skin irritant (Category 2); eye irritant (Category 2A)

Toxicity: Low acute toxicity but can cause irritation with prolonged exposure

Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limit established; use general safety guidelines

Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area

Container Type: Plastic or steel drums, jerrycans

Shelf Life: 24 months under proper storage conditions

Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation and skin/eye contact; use personal protective equipment (PPE)

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with REACH, FDA (for certain uses), and other major international chemical regulations

Manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for cosmetic and pharmaceutical grades

Listed on TSCA and other chemical inventories worldwide

Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions

Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms at typical use concentrations

Bioaccumulation: Not significant