Triethanolamine (TEA) is an organic compound with the chemical formula N(CH₂CH₂OH)₃. It’s a colorless, viscous liquid with a slight amine-like odor. TEA is widely used in various industries due to its versatile properties.

Properties of Triethanolamine

Physical Properties:
- Colorless, viscous liquid
- Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air)
- Miscible with water and many organic solvents
Chemical Properties:
- Weak base
- Forms salts with acids

Applications of Triethanolamine

TEA’s diverse properties make it a valuable ingredient in many products:

Cosmetics and Personal Care:
- Used as a pH adjuster in shampoos, conditioners, and skin care products
- Acts as an emulsifier to blend oil and water-based ingredients
- Used as a surfactant to improve the cleansing properties of soaps and detergents
Pharmaceuticals:
- Used as a buffering agent in pharmaceutical formulations
- Employed in the production of various drugs and medications
Textile Industry:
- Used as a pH adjuster and emulsifier in textile dyeing and finishing processes
Other Industries:
- Used in the production of pesticides, herbicides, and other agricultural chemicals
- Employed in the manufacturing of rubber, plastics, and coatings