Triethanolamine

Triethanolamine, often abbreviated as TEA, is an organic compound that is both a tertiary amine and a triol. A triol is a molecule with three alcohol groups. Approximately 150,000 tonnes were produced in 1999. It appears as a viscous, colorless liquid, although it can also be yellowish if impure. It is soluble in water, alcohols, and acetone. Triethanolamine is notable for its multifunctional properties as an emulsifier, surfactant, and a base.

Properties

Triethanolamine is characterized by its amine and hydroxyl functional groups. Its chemical formula is C6H15NO3, and it has a molar mass of 149.19 g/mol. The compound has a boiling point of 335.4°C (635.7°F) and a melting point of 21.6°C (70.9°F). Its viscosity and ability to dissolve in water and other solvents make it a valuable ingredient in a variety of industrial and consumer products.

Production

The production of triethanolamine involves the reaction of ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia. This process can produce not only triethanolamine but also diethanolamine and monoethanolamine as by-products. The ratios of these products can be adjusted by changing the stoichiometry of the reactants.

Applications

Triethanolamine has a wide range of applications due to its unique properties. It is commonly used in the manufacture of cosmetics and personal care products such as skin and hair care products, where it serves as a pH adjuster or emulsifier. In industrial settings, TEA is used as a surfactant and for the neutralization of acidic components in lubricants, adhesives, and paints. It also finds application in the production of cement, where it acts as a grinding aid, and in photography as a component of developer solutions.

Safety and Environmental Concerns

While triethanolamine is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and other products, there have been concerns regarding its potential as a skin irritant and its ability to form nitrosamines, which are known carcinogens, when combined with nitrosating agents. Regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union have guidelines in place to limit the concentrations of TEA in consumer products and to prevent the formation of nitrosamines.

Regulation

In the United States, the FDA monitors the concentration of triethanolamine in cosmetic products, ensuring that it is used within safe limits. The European Union's Cosmetics Directive also restricts the use of TEA in cosmetics, requiring that products containing triethanolamine be labeled if the concentration exceeds certain limits.

See Also

• Ethanolamine
• Diethanolamine
• Surfactant
• Emulsifier