Triisopropanolamine (TIPA) is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₉H₂₁NO₃, classified as a tertiary amine and polyhydric alcohol.
It is produced by the reaction of ammonia with isopropyl oxide or isopropanol, and contains three hydroxyl (-OH) groups and one tertiary nitrogen center, providing both basic and solubilizing properties.

Chemical Structure:
[(CH₃)₂CHOCH₂]₃N

TIPA acts as a weak base with excellent complexing and solvent capabilities in aqueous and polar systems.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Typical Value / Description
Appearance	Clear, colorless to very pale yellow liquid
Odor	Mild, amine-like with slight alcoholic note
Molecular Weight	191.27 g/mol
Boiling Point	305–310°C
Freezing Point	Approx. –20°C
Density (25°C)	1.03–1.05 g/cm³
Water Solubility	Completely miscible
pH (1% aqueous solution)	10.5–11.5

Applications

1. Cement and Concrete Industry

Used as a grinding aid to enhance mill efficiency and reduce energy consumption
Improves compressive strength and hydration performance of concrete

2. Detergents and Personal Care Formulations

pH regulator in liquid soaps and cleaners
Emulsion stabilizer for surfactant-based systems

3. Paints, Coatings, and Inks

Prevents pigment agglomeration and enhances dispersion stability
Improves viscosity control in water-based paints

4. Oil and Gas Industry

Functions as a corrosion inhibitor in drilling and transport systems

5. Agricultural Chemicals

Used as a pH adjuster in liquid fertilizers and pesticide formulations

Advantages

Excellent solubility in water and alcohols
High thermal and chemical stability
Multifunctional role as pH regulator, lubricant, and defoaming controller
Non-volatile and safer handling compared to lower amines

Limitations

May cause skin and eye irritation upon direct contact
Can undergo thermal decomposition at elevated temperatures
Requires controlled dosing to prevent corrosion in certain systems

Safety and Handling

Hazard Statements (GHS):

H319: Causes serious eye irritation
H315: Causes skin irritation
H335: May cause respiratory irritation

Storage and Handling Recommendations:

Store in polyethylene or stainless-steel containers at 10–30°C
Keep away from heat sources and direct sunlight
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, safety goggles, and respirators
In case of spill, dilute with plenty of water and collect safely

Summary

Triisopropanolamine (TIPA) is a high-performance, multifunctional chemical widely used across various industries.
Its primary roles include acting as a cement grinding aid, pH stabilizer, and emulsifying agent in detergents and coatings.

For reliable performance and consistent quality, TIPA should be sourced from certified suppliers that provide a valid Certificate of Analysis (COA) and technical support tailored to your application.