Triethanolamine – TEA
TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA) INTRODUCTION
Triethanolamine – TEA is a colorless compound, although the presence of impurities may give some samples a yellowish appearance. TEA, specifically Triethanolamine B85 LFG 85%, represents a low-freeze grade variant of Triethanolamine B85, comprising a combination of triethanolamine and diethanolamine. This aqueous blend is formulated to yield a product with a lower freeze point, suitable for applications where the presence of water is acceptable. This low-freeze grade product exhibits a freezing point of approximately -9°C, in contrast to the expected 18°C for regular Triethanolamine 85.
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA)
- Soluble in benzene, ether and carbon tetrachloride
- Its hydroxyl groups establish an ester bond.
- Water absorbent crystals
- The nature of the game
- Aminic and alcoholic properties
TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA) PRODUCTION METHOD
This compound, like monoethanolamine, is obtained from the reaction of ethylene oxide with ammonia solution. Water speeds up this reaction. The ratio of the obtained products can be controlled by changing the stoichiometry of the reactants. By reusing monoethanolamine or diethanolamine in the reactant or by adding them to ethylene oxide, it can be converted into triethanolamine.
CONCENTRATION AND DEGREE OF PURITY OF (TEA)
This amine exists in two commercial grades (with a concentration of 85%) and pure (with a concentration of 99%). Other samples contain smaller amounts of other ethanolamines, water, and triethanolamine glycol ether. In the commercial sample, we have about (15%) diethanolamine.
APPLICATIONS OF ETHANOLAMINES (MEA, TEA, DEA)
- Gas Scrubbing: Ethanolamines serve as effective gas scrubbing agents, removing acidic gases like carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide from natural gas and refinery streams by forming stable salts that can be easily separated.
- Chemical Intermediates: Ethanolamine acts as a precursor for the production of various chemicals, including ethyleneamines, ethylene glycols, and ethylene oxide. These derivatives find applications in detergent manufacturing, textiles, plastics, and personal care products.
- Metalworking Fluids: In metalworking fluids like coolants and lubricants, ethanolamine is employed to enhance lubrication and cooling properties while preventing corrosion.
- Personal Care Products: Ethanolamine is a key component in personal care items such as shampoos, lotions, and soaps. It functions as a pH adjuster and emulsifier, contributing to product stability and effectiveness.
- Herbicides: Ethanolamine plays a crucial role as a solvent and emulsifier in the formulation of herbicides and various agricultural chemicals.
- Pharmaceuticals: Utilized as a pH adjuster and buffering agent, ethanolamine is employed in the production of certain pharmaceuticals.
BELOW LIST IS THE MAIN USAGES OF THE TEA:
- Cosmetic Products: Used in creams, lotions, shampoos, soaps, and shaving foams.
- Resin Solvent: For nitrocellulose, cellulose ethers, and polyvinyl acetate.
- Food Preservation: Prevents spoilage of seafood, fruit juices, and dried fruits.
- Protective Coatings: For surfaces, leather, and textiles.
- Textile Industry: Cleans and bleaches fibers and wool.
- Water Treatment: Controls algae in pools and freshwater systems.
- Detergents: Found in laundry liquids, dishwashing liquids, and general cleaners.
- Hologram and Photography: For silver-halide holograms and 3D photo highlighting.
- Corrosion Inhibitor: In lubricants and metalworking fluids.
- Agriculture: Used in herbicide and pesticide formulations.
- Disinfectants and Surfactants: Enhances cleaning and emulsifying properties.
- Rubber and Petrochemical Industries: Aids in production processes.
- Cement and Concrete: Improves workability and performance.
- Adhesives and Printing: Used in adhesive formulations and printing processes.
- Gas Sweetening: Removes acidic gases in petrochemical applications.
- Pharmacology and Medical Applications: As an ingredient in medications.
- Metalwork and Aluminum Soldering: Using tin and zinc.
- Laboratory and Ultrasonic Tests: Used in specific analytical procedures.
ADVANTAGES OF TEA IN THE STRUCTURE OF COSMETIC PRODUCTS
You have probably seen the name of the chemical triethanolamine in the formulation of cosmetic products. This material has many features that have made it used in the composition of many cosmetic products and detergents. Some of these properties are mentioned below: Stability of emulsions: This compound is used to establish a connection between two immiscible compounds (two phases of water and oil) and to create a bond between them, which is finally formed as an emulsifier to stabilize the emulsion. pH adjustment: Some chemicals in the composition of cosmetic products create an acidic or alkaline pH, which is harmful to the skin and hair and damages them. By adjusting the pH of the environment and balancing it, triethanolamine prevents the products from harming the skin and hair, and actually has the role of a buffer. Due to this property, triethanolamine does not pose any risk to skin and hair. Of course, the permissible amount of triethanolamine consumption is 5%. This combination is usually used in products that are used for a short time and are finally washed. Because long-term placement of this compound on the skin causes sensitivity and damage to the skin. Therefore, it should be noted that long-term use of triethanolamine will be allergenic for the skin. Stabilization: TEA or triethanolamine in creams and lotions and various products that are a type of emulsion has a stabilizing effect and creates more stability in order to preserve the original texture.
TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA) SAFETY TIPS
This product is not dangerous and has no side effects for cosmetic purposes if taken in low doses. Also, there is no question regarding the harmfulness of this product. The maximum allowed amount of triethanolamine consumption is 5%. It is possible to cause environmental toxicity. According to studies, this substance can be harmful to some aquatic species (high dose).
TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA) MSDS
- In case of use, it is necessary to pay attention to the MSDS of triethanolamine. These are listed below:
- If this substance comes into contact with eyes and skin and causes redness, swelling and burning, wash it with plenty of water. It may cause burns due to long-term and repeated contact with the skin.
- Swallowing this product causes diarrhea and vomiting, and the best solution to get rid of it is to drink water or milk and see a doctor.
- In case of long-term use, it may cause allergies in some cases.
- In some cases, this substance can cause breathing problems.
- Triethanolamine is a combustible compound when exposed to heat or flame. In this case, it may produce very toxic gases such as nitrogen oxides.
PACKAGING AND STORAGE CONDITIONS OF (TEA)
- If this substance is thrown into fire, it will cause an explosion. So their storage place should be away from flames, heat and sparks.
- Store in a dry, cool and well-ventilated environment.
- Keep these products in resistant containers, because barrels without carbon steel coating can affect the color of the material and cause its color to change due to iron impurities.
- It is sold in 230 kg packaging.
DISTINGUISHING (TEA) (MEA) AND (DEA)
Triethanolamine (TEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA), and Diethanolamine (DEA) belong to the ethanolamine family and exhibit both similarities and distinctions in their chemical structures and characteristics.
HERE ARE THE KEY DIFFERENCES:
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE:
- TEA has three hydroxyl groups and one amino group.
- MEA features one hydroxyl group and one amino group.
- DEA comprises two hydroxyl groups and one amino group. The variations in the number and arrangement of hydroxyl and amino groups differentiate these molecules.
BASICITY:
- TEA is the most potent base among the three.
- DEA follows as the second-strongest base.
- MEA exhibits the least basicity. The number of hydroxyl groups influences the basicity of each molecule.
SOLUBILITY:
- TEA demonstrates the highest solubility in water due to its increased number of hydroxyl groups.
- DEA has intermediate solubility.
- MEA is the least soluble in water.
VISCOSITY:
- TEA has the highest viscosity due to its larger molecular size.
- DEA has moderate viscosity.
- MEA has the lowest viscosity.
USES:
- TEA serves as a surfactant, emulsifier, and pH adjuster in diverse applications, including personal care products, detergents, metalworking fluids, and gas scrubbing.
- MEA is commonly used in gas sweetening, oil refining, and the production of herbicides and agricultural chemicals.
- DEA functions primarily as a gas scrubber in natural gas and oil refining, and also as a surfactant and emulsifier in personal care products and detergents.
TOXICITY:
- All three ethanolamines can cause skin and eye irritation.
- TEA is considered more toxic than MEA and DEA due to its heightened alkalinity and larger molecular size.
In summary, while TEA, MEA, and DEA share commonalities, their differences in basicity, solubility, viscosity, uses, and toxicity distinguish them from one another.
TEA SAFETY, STORAGE, AND PACKING GUIDELINES
HAZARDS & SAFETY:
- TEA is mildly corrosive and can cause skin and eye irritation.
- Harmful if inhaled or ingested in large amounts.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE):
- Wear gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing.
- Use a respirator in poorly ventilated areas or where vapor exposure is possible.
FIRST AID MEASURES:
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water.
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical help if irritation persists.
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; administer oxygen if needed.
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention.
PACKING:
- Standard Containers: Typically packed in 200-liter steel drums or Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs).
- Ensure containers are tightly sealed to prevent contamination and leakage.
TECHNICAL DATA SHEET OF TEA 85%
Property Specifications Test Method
Appearance Clear and substantially free matter ST-30.1 of suspended
Equivalent weight 161 – 173.5 ST-5.5
Triethanolamine wt% Measure 70 min
Water, wt% 13 – 17 Loading Measure
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