triethylenetetramine

Triethylenetetramine, commonly abbreviated as TETA, is an organic polyamine with the chemical formula C6H18N4. Its structure comprises three ethylene (−CH2−CH2−) spacers linked by four amino groups, typically represented as H2N−CH2−CH2−NH−CH2−CH2−NH−CH2−CH2−NH2. TETA is a colorless to pale liquid at room temperature that is highly soluble in water and hygroscopic. It is a strong base with multiple basic centers, giving several pKa values corresponding to the different amine groups.

Uses and applications: The principal use of TETA is as a curing agent for epoxy resins, where it promotes crosslinking to form heat- and chemical-resistant thermoset networks used in coatings, adhesives, and composites. It is also employed as a chelating and complexing agent in metal finishing, oilfield chemistry, and water treatment to stabilize metal ions and control deposition. In polymer chemistry, TETA serves as a versatile building block for higher-functionality amines and crosslinkers.

Production: Industrial production of TETA involves reactions of ethylenediamine derivatives, including condensation and alkylation steps, followed by purification to obtain the tetramine product.

Safety and handling: TETA is corrosive and can cause severe skin and eye irritation. It is irritating to the respiratory tract if vapors are inhaled. It should be handled with appropriate PPE, stored away from acids and oxidizers, and kept in well-ventilated areas. Spills should be contained and disposed of according to local hazardous-waste regulations. Environmental impact is limited by proper handling, as polyamines can be toxic to aquatic life at sufficient concentrations.