Triethanolamine 85% (TEA 85%)

Triethanolamine 85% (TEA 85%) is a viscous organic compound. It is both a tertiary amine and a triol. It is produced from reacting ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia.

Chemical Appearance

Triethanolamine 85% (TEA 85%) is a colorless to yellow liquid. It is completely soluble in water, also soluble in ethanol, acetone, glycerine, and ethylene glycol. It has an ammonia like smell.

Chemical Applications and Strengths

Triethanolamine 85% (TEA 85%) is an extremely efficient chemical compound and therefore, has many industrial applications. Its main applications and strengths are:

• Primarily, Triethanolamine is used in making surfactants.
• It is used as a corrosion inhibitor.
• It is used as a neutraliser for fatty acids.
• It is used to adjust and buffer the pH.
• It solubilises oils and other insoluble ingredients.
• In some specific cases Triethanolamine salts are more soluble than the alkali metal salts.
• It is used as an additive in cement production because it facilitates the grinding process.
• It is found in many ear-drops that are used for treating ear diseases and infections.
• It is also used as a complexing agent for aluminium ions in aqueous solutions.
• In photographic processing too Triethanolamine is very useful.
• It is used in gas sweetening.
• It is used as a catalyst for the manufacture of urethane foam.
• It is a component of many cosmetic and personal care products.
• It is a major component of liquid organic fluxes for the soldering of aluminium alloys.
• In holography it is used as a swelling agent to colour shift holograms.
• It is used for making detergents and cleaners.
• It is also found in many agricultural chemicals.