Dow North America
Dow North America Triethanolamine (TEA)
Chemical Name: Triethanolamine (TEA)
Function: Grinding Aid, Anti-Redeposition Agent, Catalyst
CAS Number: 102-71-6
Chemical Family: Alcohols, Amines
Grade: Commercial Grade
DOW Triethanolamine (TEA) offers a broad spectrum of application opportunities, primarily in detergents and textile finishing. Other applications include use as intermediates in concrete additives and adhesive, rubber, agricultural and photographic chemicals; use as a component of cement grinding aids; use as “down hole” in oil well chemicals and in metalworking to prevent corrosion; and use as catalysts that promote stability during the reaction process in the manufacture of flexible and rigid urethane foams. Because TEA combines the properties of amines and alcohols, TEA exhibits the unique capability of undergoing reactions common to both groups. As an amine, TEA is mildly alkaline and reacts with acids to form salts or soaps. As an alcohol, TEA is hygroscopic and can be esterfied.
Features & Benefits
Detergents
TEA imparts a reserve alkalinity to the laundry bath, which is essential to efficient cleaning.
TEA is an effective oil and anti-redeposition agent.
Textile Finishing
TEA is used as reaction intermediates for the preparation of durable press fabric finishes and softeners.
When reacted to form amine soaps, useful as scouring agents for wool and silk because of its low alkalinity.
Because it is hygroscopic, TEA is used in the preparation of vat printing pastes.
TEA is also useful in making acetate rayon dyes.