Triethanolamine

Triethanolamine (chemical formula C₆H₁₅NO₃) is a colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid with a slight ammonia odor and weak alkalinity (pKa ≈ 7.82). Its density is approximately 1.124 g/cm³, boiling point up to 335.4°C, and melting point at 21°C. It is soluble in water and ethanol, and also in polar solvents such as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether.

Main Functions and Application Fields

1. ‌Industrial Field‌
   • ‌Metal Processing‌: As a core component of cutting fluids and rust inhibitors, it enhances lubrication and cooling effects by emulsifying oil-water mixtures and forms a protective film on metal surfaces to prevent corrosion.
   • ‌Surfactant‌: Used in metal cleaners and emulsifiers (such as triethanolamine oleate soap), it exhibits excellent emulsifying properties for mineral and vegetable oils, along with rust prevention capabilities.
   • ‌Construction Auxiliary‌: Serves as a cement grinding aid to improve grinding efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

1. ‌Daily Chemical and Pharmaceutical Fields‌
   • ‌Cosmetics‌: Acts as an emulsifier to stabilize emulsions (such as creams and shampoos), adjusts pH, and provides moisturizing and thickening effects by chelating metal ions.
   • ‌Pharmaceutical Preparations‌: Used in ointments and cream bases to promote skin penetration and wound healing; also serves as a pH adjuster and stabilizer for injections or oral medications.

1. ‌Other Applications‌
   • ‌Textile Industry‌: Functions as a fabric softener and dye solvent.
   • ‌Rubber Industry‌: Used as a vulcanization accelerator or humectant.
   • ‌Pesticide/Petroleum‌: Serves as a pesticide adjuvant or oil additive to improve performance.

Safety and Storage

• ‌Safety‌: Although not classified as hazardous, avoid contact with skin and eyes; flammable at high temperatures (flash point 93.3°C), and prolonged exposure may cause toxic reactions.
• ‌Storage Requirements‌: Store in a cool, ventilated environment away from fire sources, and keep sealed.