Triethanolamine

Main Uses

Surfactants and Daily Chemicals:

As an emulsifier, humectant, and pH regulator, it is widely used in cosmetics (such as face creams, shampoos, and body washes) and detergents. Its weak alkalinity can neutralize acidic components in the formulation and stabilize the product's pH, while the hydrophilicity of the hydroxyl group can enhance the skin's moisturizing effect.

Used in the preparation of fatty acid soaps or detergents to improve the foaming property and stability of the products.

Industrial Field:

Metal Processing: As a component of metal cutting fluids and rust inhibitors, it utilizes its chelating property to adsorb onto metal surfaces to prevent oxidation and rust; it can also be used as an additive in electroplating solutions to improve the uniformity of the coating.

Coatings and Inks: As a neutralizing agent to adjust the pH of water-based coatings, enhancing the stability and fluidity of the coatings; it can also promote pigment dispersion and improve coating adhesion.

Polyurethane Synthesis: As a chain extender and catalyst, it participates in the synthesis of polyurethane foams and elastomers, regulating the hardness and toughness of the products.

Textile Industry: Used as a fiber softener and antistatic agent to improve the hand feel and antistatic performance of fabrics.

Pharmaceuticals and Agriculture:

In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a buffer (adjusting the pH of medicinal liquids) or a solubilizer to help dissolve poorly soluble drugs; it can also be used in the preparation of local anesthetics to alleviate pain during injections.

In agriculture, it is used as a fertilizer additive to promote plant absorption of trace elements; or as a pesticide emulsifier to improve the stability of efficacy.

Other Applications: Used for natural gas desulfurization, reacting with hydrogen sulfide to form stable salts and reducing the sulfur content in the gas.

As a concrete additive to improve the plasticity and strength of concrete.

As a basic catalyst or intermediate in organic synthesis, participating in reactions such as transesterification and condensation.