Triethanolamine (TEA)

Specifikationer
Product NameTriethanolamine (TEA)
SKUTriethanolamine (TEA)
EC no203-049-8
CAS no102-71-6
FormulaC6H15NO3
Synonyms2,2′,2′′-Nitrilotriethanol, Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)amine, Triethylolamine, 2,2′,2′′-Trihydroxytriethylamine, Trolamine, TEA, TELA, TEOA, 2,2′,2′′-Nitrilotri(ethan-1-ol)

Triethanolamine (TEA), also known as TEA, is an organic compound consisting of three ethanolamine groups bonded to a central nitrogen atom. Its chemical formula is C6H15NO3.

Detailed Explanation:

Chemical Structure and Properties:

  • Formula: C6H15NO3
  • Structure: Triethanolamine (TEA) consists of a nitrogen atom (N) bonded to three ethanol groups (-CH2CH2OH).
  • Appearance: It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a faint ammonia-like odor.
  • Solubility: Triethanolamine (TEA) is highly soluble in water and soluble in alcohol and ether.

Applications: Triethanolamine (TEA) is used in a wide range of products and industries:

  • Cosmetics and Personal Care:
    • Emulsifier: Triethanolamine (TEA) is used as an emulsifier, meaning it helps blend ingredients that typically would not mix (such as oil and water), e.g., in creams, lotions, and shampoos.
    • pH Regulator: TEA can adjust the pH level in cosmetics, making the products more stable and effective.
    • Softening Agent: It is used in some skincare products as a softening agent to make the skin smooth and supple.
    • Cleansers: In products like facial cleansers and toothpaste, Triethanolamine (TEA) helps form foam and ease cleaning.
  • Industrial Applications:
    • Surface Treatment: TEA is used in the production of various surface treatment agents, such as in foam cleaners.
    • Corrosion Inhibitors: It is used in certain industrial chemicals to prevent rust formation.
    • Paint and Coatings: Triethanolamine (TEA) is also used in the paint industry, where it helps control pH and stabilize formulations.
  • Soap and Detergent Manufacturing:
    • In soap production, TEA helps promote the formation of stearate, a type of soap, by neutralizing fatty acids.
  • Research and Laboratory Use:
    • Triethanolamine (TEA) is also used as a buffer in laboratories and research environments, where it helps maintain the pH in solutions.

Health and Safety: Triethanolamine (TEA) is generally considered relatively safe to use in cosmetics and other consumer chemicals at low concentrations. However, it should be used with caution at higher concentrations, as it can irritate the skin and eyes, especially with prolonged exposure.

There are also some concerns regarding the formation of nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic compounds that can form when triethanolamine reacts with nitrates (although such reactions are relatively rare in consumer products).

Environmental Impact: Triethanolamine breaks down quickly in the environment and generally has low toxicity to aquatic organisms. However, as with all chemicals, it is important to use it responsibly to minimize impact on ecosystems.

Summary: Triethanolamine (TEA) is an organic compound used as an emulsifier, pH regulator, and softening agent in cosmetics and industrial products.

It is also used in the production of soaps, paints, and corrosion inhibitors.

TEA is generally safe at the concentrations used in cosmetics and household products but should be handled with care to avoid potential health risks from prolonged exposure.

 

Triethanolamine (TEA) can be supplied in bulk, IBC, drums, and cans.

 

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