Triethanolamin

Triethanolamine, often abbreviated as TEA, is a viscous organic compound that is both a weak base and a triol. It is a colorless solid at room temperature, though it often appears as a pale yellow liquid due to impurities. TEA is soluble in water and alcohol and is widely used in various industries due to its versatile properties.

Its primary applications include acting as a pH adjuster and emulsifier in cosmetics and personal care products like lotions, creams, shampoos, and soaps. It helps to create stable emulsions by reducing the surface tension between oil and water components. In industrial settings, TEA is utilized as a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids and as an additive in cement production to improve grinding efficiency and cement strength. It also finds use in the formulation of detergents and as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of other compounds.

While generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products at specified concentrations, prolonged or high-level exposure to TEA can cause skin and eye irritation. Regulatory bodies often set limits on its concentration in consumer products. Research into its long-term effects continues, with ongoing evaluation of its safety profile.