Triethanolamine (TEA) is a colorless to pale yellow, viscous liquid with a mild ammonia-like odor. It is a tertiary amine and a triol, making it highly versatile in various industrial applications. TEA is widely used as a pH regulator, emulsifier, and surfactant in cosmetics, detergents, and metalworking fluids. It is also used in cement grinding aids, textile processing, and pharmaceutical formulations.
Cosmetics & Personal Care: Used in shampoos, lotions, and creams as a pH balancer and emulsifier.
Detergents & Soaps: Functions as a surfactant and foam stabilizer in liquid detergents and household cleaners.
Metalworking Fluids: Helps in corrosion inhibition and lubrication in industrial machining.
Cement Industry: Acts as a grinding aid to enhance cement performance.
Textile Processing: Used in fabric softeners and dyeing processes.
Agricultural Chemicals: Serves as an intermediate in herbicides and pesticide formulations.
Gas Treatment: Used in removing CO₂ and H₂S from natural gas.
Property | Specification |
---|---|
Chemical Formula | C6H15NO3 |
CAS Number | 102-71-6 |
Molecular Weight | 149.19 g/mol |
Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
Purity | 99% min % & 85% min |
Water Content | 0.5% max |
Color (APHA) | 30 max |
Density (at 20°C) | 1.125-1.135 g/cm³ |
Boiling Point | 335-335.5°C |
Flash Point | 185°C (closed cup) |
pH (1% solution) | 9.5 – 11.0 |
Solubility in Water | Completely miscible |
Viscosity (at 20°C) | 22-28 mPa·s |
Refractive Index (nD20) | 1.483-1.487 |