Triethanolamine is an organic amine compound widely used as an industrial ingredient, commonly referred to as TEA, tris(2‑hydroxyethyl)amine, or tri(2‑hydroxyethyl)amine in technical documentation. Identified by CAS 102‑71‑6, it contains both tertiary amine and hydroxyl functional groups, enabling acid neutralization, pH adjustment, and salt formation within aqueous and semi‑aqueous formulation systems. It is typically applied as a neutralizing amine in industrial chemical formulations where controlled alkalinity and compatibility with surfactants or functional additives are required. In terms of supply, the material is provided with competitive factory pricing, customized specifications, and complete documentation including MSDS, TDS, COA, suitable for regulated bulk supply in industrial applications.
Triethanolamine CAS 102-71-6
- CAS: 102-71-6
- Synonyms: Triethanolamine, TEA, Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)amine, Tri(2-hydroxyethyl)amine
- Einecs: 203-049-8
- Molecular Formula: C6H15NO3
- Grade: Industrial grade 98%
- Package: 200kg iron drum or 50kg plastic drum packaging
Product Description
Physicochemical Properties
| Parameter | Specification (99% Grade) | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid | Visual Inspection |
| Purity (TEA Content) | ≥ 99.0% | Gas Chromatography |
| Monoethanolamine (MEA) | ≤ 0.10% | Gas Chromatography |
| Diethanolamine (DEA) | ≤ 0.50% | Gas Chromatography |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.20% | Karl Fischer |
| Color (Pt-Co) | ≤ 40 | ASTM D1209 |
| Specific Gravity (20°C/20°C) | 1.124 – 1.127 | ASTM D1298 |
| Freezing Point | 20°C – 21°C | ASTM D1493 |
| Apparent Equivalent Weight | 148 – 150 | Titration |
Applications
Construction & Cement
- Grinding Aid: Added during cement clinker grinding to prevent agglomeration, reduce energy consumption, and improve the flowability and setting time of the final cement.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- pH Adjuster: Widely used to neutralize carbomers and fatty acids in gels, creams, and lotions.
- Emulsifier: Reacts with fatty acids (like Stearic Acid) to form TEA-Stearate, a primary emulsifier for stable oil-in-water emulsions.
Industrial Fluids
- Corrosion Inhibitor: Acts as a buffer and anti-corrosion agent in metalworking fluids, cutting oils, and coolants, protecting metal surfaces from rust.
Textile & Chemical Processing
- Surfactant: Used in textile scouring and dyeing auxiliaries to improve dye penetration and uniformity.
Quality Assurance (QA/QC)
Our Triethanolamine production line is fully automated and ISO 9001:2015 certified to ensure batch-to-batch consistency.
- Impurity Control: We strictly monitor the levels of secondary amines (DEA) to minimize the risk of nitrosamine formation, complying with global cosmetic regulations.
- Purity Verification: Every shipment is tested via Gas Chromatography (GC) to guarantee a minimum TEA content of 99.0%.
- Stability Testing: Samples are retained for 12 months to track stability and color performance over time.
Storage & Safety
Storage Guidelines
- Freezing Point: TEA 99% has a freezing point of ~21°C. It may solidify in cooler temperatures. Store in a heated warehouse or use drum heaters to thaw gently before use.
- Hygroscopic: The product absorbs moisture from the air. Keep containers tightly sealed (nitrogen blanket recommended).
- Shelf Life: 12 months when stored under proper conditions (20-35°C).
Safety & PPE Recommendations
- Handling: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. While less irritating than MEA or DEA, prolonged exposure can cause allergic reactions.
- PPE: Wear chemical-resistant gloves (Rubber/Neoprene), safety goggles, and long-sleeved protective clothing.
- Spill Management: Absorb spills with sand or earth. Do not rinse into public waterways.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
Is triethanolamine typically used as an industrial ingredient rather than a finished product?
A: Yes. Triethanolamine is commonly used as an industrial ingredient within formulation systems, not as a standalone end‑use product. -
Q:
What functional role does triethanolamine usually play in industrial formulations?
A: It is typically applied as a neutralizing amine to adjust pH and form stable salts within chemical processing or formulation environments. -
Q:
What is the primary function of CAS 102-71-6 when formulated with acidic polymers or fatty acids?
A: CAS 102-71-6 acts as a highly effective neutralizing agent and pH buffer. In industrial formulations involving Carbomers or fatty acid emulsions, it reacts with free carboxyl groups to form stable amine salts. This reaction is the standard mechanism for thickening polymer gels or emulsifying oil-in-water systems, providing a stable pH typically in the range of 7.0–9.0 without the harsh alkalinity associated with inorganic bases.
Documents
Documents and Product Support
For product review and sourcing evaluation, supporting documents can be coordinated according to the product type, inquiry stage, and order requirements.
- COA for batch-based quality reference
- TDS for key physical and chemical information
- SDS / MSDS for handling, storage, and safety reference
- Packing information for sample, trial, and bulk orders
- Technical communication based on application and specification requirements
Quotation
Information to Confirm Before Quotation
Clear sourcing information helps reduce specification mismatch and allows a more accurate quotation before sample or bulk order discussion.
- Product name and CAS number
- Application or intended end use
- Required purity, grade, or specification
- Sample quantity, trial order, or bulk demand
- Preferred packing form or net weight
- Destination country or port
- Required documents or compliance expectations
Storage & Handling
Packaging, Storage, and Handling Notes
Packaging form, storage conditions, shelf life, and shipment arrangements should be confirmed according to the product characteristics, package size, and destination requirements.
Before order confirmation, buyers are advised to review the corresponding product documents and confirm whether any special storage, labeling, or handling requirements apply.
Supply Support
Sample, Bulk Order and Repeat Supply Support
Support can be arranged for sample discussion, bulk supply planning, packaging confirmation, and routine sourcing communication based on the actual product and order requirements.
For repeat-use formulations or long-term procurement plans, buyers may discuss specification consistency, packaging preferences, delivery expectations, and document coordination in advance.
