Triethanolamine

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Triethanolamine (TEA) is a viscous, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild ammonia-like odor. It is a multifunctional organic compound widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications as a pH adjuster, emulsifier, surfactant, and corrosion inhibitor. Triethanolamine neutralizes fatty acids to form soaps and helps stabilize emulsions, making it essential in personal care formulations and various chemical manufacturing processes. Its versatility and compatibility with other ingredients make it a valuable additive in numerous industries.

Description

Primary Uses
Cosmetics and Personal Care: Acts as a pH balancer, emulsifier, and surfactant in creams, lotions, shampoos, and soaps, helping to stabilize formulations and improve texture.

Pharmaceuticals: Used as a pH adjuster and emulsifying agent in ointments, creams, and topical solutions.

Industrial Applications: Functions as a corrosion inhibitor and neutralizing agent in metalworking fluids, boilers, and cooling systems.

Chemical Manufacturing: Used in the production of surfactants, detergents, and textile processing chemicals.

Secondary Uses
Agriculture: Used as a component in pesticide formulations to enhance spreading and penetration.

Paints and Coatings: Acts as a neutralizer and stabilizer in water-based paints and coatings.

Printing Industry: Serves as a pH regulator and emulsifier in ink formulations.

Gas Treatment: Utilized in gas scrubbing to remove acidic gases like CO2 and H2S.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES
  • 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

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
  • PPE Required: Gloves, goggles, and protective clothing recommended

  • Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid direct contact

  • Storage Measures: Keep containers sealed and away from incompatible materials such as strong acids

 

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air if inhaled; seek medical attention if symptoms develop

  • Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing

  • Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists

  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth and seek medical advice if necessary

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; emits toxic fumes on burning

  • Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide

  • Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides