Triethanolamine
Triethanolamine (TEA), also known as 2,2′,2”-nitrilotriethanol, is a colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid with formula C6H15NO3 and molecular weight 149.19 g/mol. It has a density of 1.124 g/cm³, boiling point 335°C, melting point 21°C, flash point 179°C, and refractive index 1.482. Highly soluble in water and ethanol, it has a mild ammoniacal odor and acts as a weak base (pH 10.5 in 1% solution)
Triethanolamine
Used as pH adjuster and emulsifier in cosmetics, detergents, and personal care products like shampoos; corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids; intermediate in surfactants for textiles and cleaning; gas sweetening in oil refining; cement grinding aid; in pharmaceuticals as neutralizer; in agriculture for pesticide formulations.
Causes skin/eye/respiratory irritation (H315, H319, H335); suspected carcinogen if contaminated with nitrosamines; avoid breathing vapors (P261), use PPE (P280). Low toxicity LD50 oral >5000 mg/kg; combustible; incompatible with strong acids/oxidizers. Stable but may form explosive mixtures; chronic aquatic effects none; ventilate areas.
Packaged in 200kg iron drums or 25kg plastic pails; store tightly closed in cool, dry, ventilated places away from incompatibles per SDS guidelines.
