TRIETHANOLAMINE 99%

Triethanolamine (TEA) 99% is a high-purity organic chemical compound, specifically an amino alcohol, widely recognized for its versatile applications across various industries. Chemically, it is a tertiary amine and a tri-alcohol, with the formula N(CH2CH2OH)3. This colorless to pale yellow, viscous liquid is highly hygroscopic and completely miscible with water, ethanol, and acetone, making it an excellent solvent and dispersant. Its synthesis typically involves the reaction of ethylene oxide with ammonia, yielding a mixture of mono-, di-, and triethanolamines, from which 99% pure TEA is isolated through fractional distillation to meet stringent quality specifications. In industrial contexts, TEA serves as a crucial building block and functional additive, valued for its unique amphoteric properties and ability to act as a weak base, enabling its diverse roles in stabilizing and enhancing product performance.

In the context of product formulation, Triethanolamine's primary benefits stem from its exceptional functional properties rather than direct physiological "health benefits" upon ingestion. As an effective pH adjuster, it neutralizes acidic components, stabilizing formulations and extending shelf life by maintaining optimal pH ranges crucial for ingredient efficacy and product integrity. Its amphiphilic nature also makes it a potent emulsifying agent, facilitating the stable dispersion of immiscible liquids like oil and water, which is fundamental for creating smooth, consistent textures in creams, lotions, and pharmaceutical excipients. Furthermore, TEA acts as a surfactant, reducing surface tension and aiding in the uniform spreading and penetration of active components. While not a bioactive compound in the traditional sense, its role in creating stable and effective delivery systems is indirectly beneficial, ensuring that other active ingredients within a formulation perform as intended.

The application of Triethanolamine 99% extends broadly, particularly in cosmetics, personal care products, and certain pharmaceutical preparations as an excipient. Its role in these formulations is meticulously regulated, with extensive toxicological research guiding its safe use. Studies by expert panels, such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), have assessed its safety for topical applications, concluding it is safe for use in rinse-off products and at concentrations up to 5% in leave-on products, provided it is free of N-nitrosamine impurities, which are potential carcinogens. Manufacturers are required to ensure the absence of N-nitrosamines through strict quality control measures and by avoiding its combination with nitrosating agents. This rigorous scientific scrutiny underscores the importance of high-purity TEA, like the 99% grade, to minimize potential risks and ensure compliance with global regulatory standards for consumer safety.