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