Triethanolamine

Triethanolamine (TEA) is a colorless, viscous liquid with a mild ammonia odor. It is a tertiary amine and a triol, meaning that it has three alcohol groups and three nitrogen atoms. TEA is a bifunctional compound, meaning that it exhibits both the properties of alcohols and amines.

TEA is used in a variety of applications, including:

• Surfactant: TEA is a common ingredient in surfactants, which are substances that lower the surface tension of water. Surfactants are used in a wide range of products, including soaps, detergents, shampoos, and lotions.
• Corrosion inhibitor: TEA is a corrosion inhibitor, which means that it helps to prevent metals from corroding. TEA is used in a variety of industrial applications, such as metalworking fluids, paints, and inks.
• Buffer: TEA is a buffer, which means that it helps to keep the pH of a solution constant. Buffers are used in a variety of products, such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products.
• Emulsifier: TEA is an emulsifier, which means that it helps to combine two liquids that would not normally mix together. Emulsifiers are used in a variety of products, such as salad dressings, mayonnaise, and cosmetics.
• Other uses: TEA is also used in a variety of other applications, such as making foams, flame retardants, and herbicides.

TEA is generally considered to be safe when used in small amounts. However, it can be harmful if inhaled or ingested in large amounts. It can also cause skin irritation and eye damage.

Here are some additional properties of triethanolamine:

• Molecular formula: C6H15NO3
• CAS number: 102-71-6
• Density: 1.124 g/mL
• Melting point: 21.6 °C (70.88 °F)
• Boiling point: 290 °C (554 °F)
• Flash point: 185 °C (365 °F)
• Odor: Mild ammonia odor
• Solubility: Miscible in water, ethanol, and methanol