Triethylamine
TEA, N,N-Diethylethanamine.
- CAS
- 121-44-8
- EC
- 204-469-4
- Sectors
- Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & Elastomers, Pharma & Healthcare, Plastics & Polymers
Triethylamine (CAS 121-44-8) is a tertiary amine supplied as a clear, colorless liquid with a strong ammonia odor, used as a base, catalyst and solvent in water-borne resin neutralization, pharmaceutical intermediate synthesis and polyurethane foam production. It is a colorless liquid with a strong, fish-like ammonia odor, providing exceptional reactivity in various organic synthesis pathways.
In the coatings industry, TEA is an essential Technical Grade neutralizing agent for water-borne resins. It ensures the stability and solubility of polyester and polyurethane dispersions, facilitating a high-quality finish and faster curing.
As a catalyst, it is indispensable in the production of pharmaceutical intermediates, agrochemicals, and casting resins. Its ability to act as an acid acceptor makes it a critical component in esterification and alkylation reactions.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C6H15N |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 101.19 g/mol |
| Appearance | Triethylamine is a colorless liquid. Strong ammonia odor. |
| Form | Liquid |
| Color | Clear |
| Odor | Strong ammonia-like odor |
| Melting point | -114.7 °C |
| Boiling point | 89.3 °C |
| Density | 0.7255 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Water solubility | 133 g/L (20 °C) |
| Flash point | 20 °F |
| pH | 12.7 (100g/l, H2O, 15°C)(IUCLID) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Flammable, Corrosive, Acute toxicity, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 29211910 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Triethylamine
Applications
- Resin Neutralization: Adjusts the pH of water-based paint systems to ensure resin solubility and shelf stability.
- Chemical Synthesis: Acts as a catalyst in the production of polyurethane foams and as a base in drug manufacturing.
- Foundry Industry: Used as a cold-box catalyst to accelerate the curing of sand molds in metal casting operations.
Safety & Risks
Classified as a Highly Flammable Liquid and Corrosive. Harmful if inhaled or in contact with skin. Use Full-Face Respirator, Chemical-Resistant Suit, and Safety Goggles.
Packaging
150 kg Steel Drums, IBC Tanks, and Isotanks.