Triethanolamine

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Triethanolamine
Triethanolamine
General
Systematic name Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)amine
Other names TEA, Trolamine
Molecular formula C6H15NO3
SMILES OCC[N](CCO)CCO
Molar mass 149.188 g/mol
Appearance Pale yellow liquid, hygroscopic.
CAS number [102-71-6]
Properties
Density and phase 1.126 g/cm3, liquid.
Solubility in water Miscible.
Melting point 20.5°C (293.65 K)
Boiling point 335.4°C (608.55 K)
Structure
Dipole moment  ? D
Hazards
MSDS External MSDS
Main hazards Irritant.
NFPA 704

1
2
0
 
Flash point 179°C
R/S statement R: R36, R37, R38.
S: S26, S36
RTECS number KL9275000
Supplementary data page
Structure and
properties
n, εr, etc.
Thermodynamic
data
Phase behaviour
Solid, liquid, gas
Spectral data UV, IR, NMR, MS
Related compounds
Related Amines Ethanolamine
Diethanolamine
Related compounds Ethanol
Triethylamine
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for
materials in their standard state (at 25°C, 100 kPa)
Infobox disclaimer and references

Triethanolamine, often abbreviated as TEA, is an organic chemical compound which is both a tertiary amine and a tri-alcohol. A tri-alcohol is a molecule with three hydroxyl groups. Like other amines, triethanolamine acts as a weak base due to the lone pair of electrons on the nitrogen atom.

This ingredient is used as a pH balancer in cosmetic preparations in a variety of different products - ranging from skin lotion, eye gels, moisturizers, shampoos, shaving foams etc.

As with any amines, it may have the potential to create nitrosamines, but with the low concentrations used in cosmetic products the chances of that happening is very slim and it is further theorized that nitrosamines cannot penetrate the skin.[citation needed]

It is listed under Schedule 3, part B of the Chemical Weapons Convention as it can be used in the manufacture nitrogen mustards.


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