Triethanolamine (TEA)

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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.

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Category: Surfactants(cosmetic) Tags: Alkanolamine, Cleaning Products & Detergents, Cosmetics & Personal Care Industry, Organic Base, TEA, Triethanolamine, Trolamine

Description

Table of Contents

Triethanolamine (TEA)

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.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Key Attributes

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

2. 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)

3. 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

4. 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)

5. 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

6. 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

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