1. Chemical Definition

• Name: Triethanolamine
• Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₅NO₃
• Molecular Weight: 149.19 g/mol
• Chemical Structure: Composed of three hydroxyl groups (-OH) and one amine group (-NH) attached to an ethane backbone.
• Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid.
• Purity: TEA Oil 99% refers to a highly pure grade containing 99% Triethanolamine.
• Nature: Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture) and slightly viscous.

2. Usages of Triethanolamine (TEA Oil 99%)

Triethanolamine is a versatile compound used in various industries:

1. Cosmetics and Personal Care:
   • Acts as a pH adjuster in skincare products, such as creams, lotions, and shampoos.
   • Used as an emulsifying agent to blend water and oil-based ingredients in cosmetics.
   • Found in soaps, shaving creams, and makeup for its stabilizing properties.
2. Pharmaceutical Industry:
   • Functions as a buffering agent in medicinal creams and ointments.
   • Used in eye drops and topical formulations.
3. Textile Industry:
   • Acts as a lubricant and softener in textile processing.
4. Metalworking:
   • Utilized in metalworking fluids as a corrosion inhibitor and pH stabilizer.
5. Detergent and Cleaning Products:
   • Added to liquid detergents, surface cleaners, and dishwashing liquids to neutralize fatty acids and improve solubility.
6. Cement and Construction:
   • Used as a grinding aid in cement production to enhance efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
7. Industrial Applications:
   • Employed in oil and gas for gas sweetening to remove hydrogen sulfide and CO₂.
   • Acts as a surfactant and dispersant in lubricants and coatings.

3. Safety and Handling Precautions

Triethanolamine, while widely used, requires careful handling due to its potential health effects:

1. Health Hazards:
   • Skin Contact: May cause mild to moderate skin irritation. Prolonged exposure can lead to dermatitis.
   • Eye Contact: Can cause severe eye irritation and redness.
   • Inhalation: Vapors or mist may irritate the respiratory tract.
   • Ingestion: Ingestion is harmful and may cause gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, and vomiting.
2. Precautions:
   • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and chemical-resistant clothing. Use respiratory protection if vapor concentration is high.
   • Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Keep containers tightly closed and away from incompatible materials like strong acids or oxidizing agents.
   • Handling: Avoid inhalation of vapors and contact with skin or eyes. Use in well-ventilated areas to minimize exposure.
3. First Aid Measures:
   • Skin Contact: Rinse with plenty of water and mild soap for 15 minutes. Remove contaminated clothing.
   • Eye Contact: Flush eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention immediately.
   • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical help if breathing difficulties persist.
   • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and drink plenty of water; seek immediate medical assistance.
4. Environmental Concerns:
   • Avoid releasing TEA into water systems as it may have harmful effects on aquatic life.
   • Dispose of TEA and contaminated packaging according to local environmental regulations.

4. Regulatory Information

• Triethanolamine is not classified as highly toxic but is regulated for safe handling.
• In the European Union (EU), it complies with REACH regulations.
• In the U.S., it is monitored under the OSHA guidelines for workplace safety.

5. Synonyms

• TEA
• Trolamine
• 2,2′,2”-Nitrilotriethanol

By following safety measures and industry standards, Triethanolamine can be safely and effectively used in a variety of applications.