TRIETHANOLAMINE 85%

TEA 85% Triethanolamine — Industrial-Grade Neutralizer and Emulsifier in Mexico

At Quimiconsult we distribute TEA 85% Triethanolamine, also known as Triethanolamine 85%, industrial-grade TEA or 2,2′,2″-nitrilotriethanol (CAS 102-71-6), an industrial organic amine that works as a neutralizer and emulsifier in the formulation of household and industrial cleaners and other chemical products. Its main application is the neutralization of dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DDBSA, also called sulfonic acid or LABSA), at a typical dosage of 0.4 to 0.5 kg of TEA 85% per kg of DDBSA, turning the acid into a water-soluble surfactant salt. Triethanolamine 85% also forms emulsifying soaps with fatty acids and is used to adjust the pH of formulations.

TEA 85% is a clear, viscous liquid, colorless to slightly yellowish, with a slight ammoniacal odor. It is produced from ammonia and ethylene oxide, is soluble in water and has a density of 1.12 to 1.13 g/mL at 20 °C. Its total triethanolamine content is 84.0 to 85.0% and its color is controlled to a maximum of 25 Klett (direct reading).

As an easy-to-dose liquid, Triethanolamine 85% fits smoothly into the batch mixing processes of manufacturers of detergents, dishwashing liquids, all-purpose cleaners, degreasers and chemical specialties. It is a practical alternative to inorganic neutralizers when the formulator is looking for amine surfactant salts, with their own solubility profile and behavior in the formula.

At Quimiconsult, based in San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, we distribute industrial-grade TEA 85% Triethanolamine with nationwide coverage, technical data sheet (TDS), safety data sheet (HDS/SDS) in accordance with NOM-018-STPS-2015, and a certificate of analysis per lot on request, for manufacturers of cleaning products, chemical specialty formulators, contract manufacturers and industrial buyers throughout Mexico.

Technical characteristics of Triethanolamine 85%

TEA 85% is an industrial-grade triethanolamine: a product designed for the manufacture of cleaners and chemical specialties, not for cosmetic, pharmaceutical or food use. Its main benefits, according to its technical data sheet, are:

• Neutralizes DDBSA and fatty acids: it converts dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid and fatty acids into triethanolamine salts.
• Forms water-soluble emulsifying salts: the products of neutralization act as surfactants and emulsifiers within the formula.
• Adjusts formulation pH: as an organic base, it brings an acidic formulation to its target pH.
• Easy-to-dose liquid: it is pumped, weighed and added to the batch as a liquid; at low temperature its viscosity increases, so it should be warmed gently and homogenized before use.

Other properties reported in its safety data sheet are relevant for in-plant handling: vapor pressure below 0.01 hPa at 25 °C (it practically does not evaporate at room temperature, so inhalation exposure is unlikely unless mists form), autoignition temperature of 325 °C and explosive limits of 2.1 to 10.6 % vol. It is not regulated as dangerous goods for transport.

Technical specifications of TEA 85% Triethanolamine

Description:
Industrial-grade Triethanolamine 85%, neutralizer and emulsifier

CAS number:
102-71-6 (triethanolamine)

Appearance:
Clear viscous liquid

Color and odor:
Colorless to slightly yellowish, slight ammoniacal odor

Total triethanolamine:
84.0 – 85.0%

Color (Klett, direct):
Max. 25

Density (20 °C):
1.12 – 1.13 g/mL

Solubility:
Soluble in water

Composition (SDS):
Triethanolamine (CAS 102-71-6) 75 – < 90%; diethanolamine (CAS 111-42-2) 10 – < 25%

Vapor pressure (25 °C):
< 0.01 hPa

Autoignition temperature:
325 °C

Explosive limits:
2.1 – 10.6 % vol

Typical dosage (DDBSA neutralization):
0.4 – 0.5 kg per kg of DDBSA

Transport:
Not regulated as dangerous goods

NFPA rating:
Health 2, Flammability 1, Reactivity 0

Other names:
TEA 85%, industrial-grade triethanolamine, 2,2′,2″-nitrilotriethanol

Quimiconsult SKU:
INMPF021

Each delivery can be accompanied by its technical data sheet (TDS), safety data sheet (HDS/SDS) and, on request, a certificate of analysis per lot, for the customer's supplier qualification and raw-material quality control processes.

Composition: what the "85%" in TEA 85% means

On the market, triethanolamine is offered in different purity grades. In TEA 85%, the figure refers to the total triethanolamine content (84.0 to 85.0%) specified in its technical data sheet. According to section 3 of its safety data sheet, the product is composed of triethanolamine (75 to less than 90%) and diethanolamine (DEA, 10 to less than 25%), another ethanolamine formed in the same process from ammonia and ethylene oxide.

For the formulator, this has two practical implications:

• In neutralization: diethanolamine is also an amine that reacts with acids, so the whole mixture contributes to neutralizing the DDBSA or fatty acids. That is why the reference dosage in the technical data sheet (0.4 to 0.5 kg per kg of DDBSA) is expressed for the product as supplied, and fine adjustment is done by measuring the pH of the formula.
• In safety and regulation: diethanolamine has its own occupational exposure limit (TWA 2 mg/m³ under NOM-010-STPS) and, like triethanolamine, must not come into contact with nitrosating agents (for example, nitrites), since nitrosamines may form.

How does Triethanolamine 85% work?

Triethanolamine is a tertiary amine with three hydroxyethyl groups: the nitrogen atom gives it basic character (able to accept a proton from an acid) and the three hydroxyl groups give it affinity for water. This combination explains its three functions in a formulation.

Neutralization of sulfonic acid (DDBSA / LABSA): dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid is the acidic raw material of many detergents, but in its acid form it is not the final surfactant. When TEA 85% is added, the amine accepts the proton from the sulfonic group and triethanolamine dodecylbenzenesulfonate is formed, a water-soluble anionic surfactant salt that provides detergency and foam. The reaction with strong acids is exothermic (it releases heat), so the addition must be controlled.

Formation of emulsifying soaps with fatty acids: when TEA 85% is combined with fatty acids, triethanolamine soaps are formed. These salts have a water-loving part (the amine with its hydroxyl groups) and an oil-loving part (the fatty chain), so they sit at the oil-water interface and make it possible to form and stabilize emulsions. This is the principle behind its role as an emulsifier.

pH adjustment: as an organic base, TEA 85% is used to bring an acidic formulation toward a more neutral or slightly alkaline pH. Being liquid and water-soluble, it is dosed precisely and blends easily into the mix, which makes it useful for final pH adjustment in production batches.

Why an amine and not an inorganic alkali: caustic soda and caustic potash also neutralize DDBSA and fatty acids, but they produce sodium or potassium salts. Triethanolamine produces amine salts, which formulators choose for their solubility, their compatibility with the rest of the formula and the ease of handling a liquid neutralizer. The choice depends on the formulation and on the specifications of each finished product.

Applications of TEA 85% Triethanolamine

Its technical data sheet defines it as an industrial-grade neutralizer and emulsifier for formulating cleaners and other products. Below we describe the most common uses in Mexican industry.

Household cleaners: dishwashing liquids, all-purpose cleaners and liquid detergents

This is the main application of TEA 85%. In the manufacture of dishwashing liquids, all-purpose cleaners and liquid detergents, sulfonic acid (DDBSA) is neutralized with triethanolamine to obtain the surfactant salt that provides detergency and foam:

• DDBSA neutralization at a typical dosage of 0.4 to 0.5 kg of TEA 85% per kg of DDBSA, adjusting to the target pH of the formula.
• Final pH adjustment of the finished product.

Industrial and institutional cleaners and degreasers

In the formulation of industrial cleaners, degreasers, floor cleaners and institutional products, TEA 85% plays the same role as a sulfonic acid neutralizer and also provides emulsifying salts that help keep grease and oil in suspension during washing.

• DDBSA neutralizer in concentrates for dilution.
• Formation of triethanolamine soaps with fatty acids to improve emulsifying power on greasy soil.
• pH adjustment in water-based cleaners.

Emulsions with fatty acids

The triethanolamine soaps formed by combining TEA 85% with fatty acids are used as the emulsifying system in industrial emulsions. The formulator adjusts the ratio of fatty acid to TEA to obtain the desired stability and consistency.

pH adjustment in water-based formulations

In water-based industrial formulations triethanolamine is used to adjust pH and neutralize acidic components. In these applications, compatibility with the rest of the formula and with the equipment materials should be checked (see the compatibility section).

Its safety data sheet states that contact with nitrosating agents, such as nitrites, must be avoided because of the risk of nitrosamine formation, and that it is incompatible with copper, aluminum and their alloys; both points must be considered when choosing the other formula components and the equipment materials.

Other industrial uses

As a neutralizer and emulsifier, TEA 85% is also used in chemical specialties and contract manufacturing of cleaning products, provided the use is industrial. It is not intended for cosmetics, personal care products, food or medicines; those uses require a specific grade.

Directions for use and dosage of TEA 85%

Dosage depends on the formula and the target pH of the finished product. As a reference for DDBSA neutralization, the technical data sheet gives a typical dosage of 0.4 to 0.5 kg of TEA 85% per kg of DDBSA. A common working sequence is:

• Condition the product: if it has been stored at low temperature, warm it gently and homogenize it before use, since its viscosity increases in the cold.
• Prepare the aqueous phase: charge the formula water into the mixing tank under agitation.
• Add in a controlled way: add the DDBSA and the TEA 85% gradually and under constant agitation, never all at once, because the reaction with strong acids is exothermic.
• Check the pH: measure the pH of the mix and complete the TEA 85% dose up to the value specified by your formula.
• Complete the formula: add the remaining surfactants, additives, preservative and fragrance according to the manufacturing procedure.
• Test at laboratory scale: before scaling up, confirm the ratios with a small batch; the technical data sheet asks users to confirm the product's suitability through practical application.

For emulsifying soaps with fatty acids, the proportion of TEA 85% is adjusted according to the fatty acid used and the emulsion sought; we recommend determining it with laboratory tests. During all operations, wear the personal protective equipment indicated in the safety section.

Certifications and documentation for TEA 85%

TEA 85% Triethanolamine is supplied with its technical data sheet (TDS) and its safety data sheet (HDS/SDS), prepared in accordance with NOM-018-STPS-2015 and classified and labeled under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS/SGA). A certificate of analysis per lot can be requested.

Safety, handling and storage of Triethanolamine 85%

TEA 85% is an industrial chemical classified as hazardous under the GHS. Its safety data sheet gives the signal word "Danger" and the following classification:

• Serious eye damage, category 1 — H318: causes serious eye damage.
• Skin irritation, category 2 — H315: causes skin irritation; prolonged or repeated contact may cause dermatitis.
• Specific target organ toxicity (repeated exposure), category 2 — H373: may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure if swallowed.
• Acute oral toxicity, category 5 — H303: may be harmful if swallowed (oral ATE of the mixture: 4,533 mg/kg).

The corresponding pictograms appear on the product label and SDS; check them before handling. The NFPA rating is health 2, flammability 1, reactivity 0.

Personal protective equipment:

• Eyes: chemical splash goggles or face shield. This is the most critical point, given the serious eye damage classification.
• Skin and body: nitrile or neoprene chemical protective gloves, work clothing and boots; barrier cream is recommended.
• Respiratory: in case of insufficient ventilation or mist formation, wear respiratory protection.

Exposure limits (NOM-010-STPS): triethanolamine TWA 5 mg/m³; diethanolamine TWA 2 mg/m³.

Safe handling: use only in well-ventilated areas; do not breathe mist or vapors; wash hands after each use; do not eat, drink or smoke in work areas; remove contaminated clothing and protective equipment before entering eating areas.

First aid:

• Eye contact: remove contact lenses if easy to do, hold the eyelids apart and rinse with plenty of clean water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical attention.
• Skin contact: remove contaminated clothing and wash with plenty of soap and water; if irritation persists, seek medical attention.
• Inhalation: provide fresh air; in case of respiratory irritation, consult a doctor.
• Ingestion: rinse the mouth only if the person is conscious; do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention if discomfort occurs.

Storage: keep the container tightly closed in a cool, dry, ventilated place, away from oxidizing agents, acids, food and beverages. Viscosity increases at low temperature: warm gently and homogenize before use.

Spills: ventilate the area, wear protective equipment, cover drains, absorb with inert material (sand, earth or vermiculite) and place in labeled containers for disposal. Keep the product and contaminated wash water out of drains and surface and ground water.

Fire: it is combustible at elevated temperatures and in a fire releases nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Extinguish with water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide; firefighters must wear full protective clothing with self-contained breathing apparatus.

Disposal: do not dispose of waste into drains; unused product and contaminated containers are disposed of in accordance with environmental and hazardous waste legislation, through an authorized company. Completely emptied containers may be recycled.

Material compatibility and incompatibilities

The safety data sheet for TEA 85% lists the following incompatible materials:

• Oxidizing agents: it reacts exothermically with them.
• Strong acids: it reacts exothermically. In DDBSA neutralization this reaction is intended, but it must be carried out with controlled addition and agitation.
• Nitrosating agents (for example, nitrites): nitrosamines may form.
• Copper, aluminum and their alloys (such as brass and bronze): they must not be used in tanks, piping, valves or fittings in contact with the product.

High temperatures and ignition sources must also be avoided. When selecting storage, pumping and mixing equipment, choose materials free of copper and aluminum and confirm their compatibility with your equipment supplier.

TEA 85% compared with other neutralizers and triethanolamine grades

• TEA 85% vs. caustic soda or caustic potash: all three neutralize sulfonic acid and fatty acids, but triethanolamine forms amine salts instead of sodium or potassium salts. It is chosen when the formula calls for a liquid organic neutralizer and the properties of TEA soaps.
• TEA 85% vs. higher-purity triethanolamine: there are grades with a higher triethanolamine content and a lower diethanolamine content. TEA 85% is the industrial grade aimed at cleaners and chemical specialties, specified by its total triethanolamine (84.0 – 85.0%).
• TEA 85% vs. diethanolamine: TEA 85% contains diethanolamine as a component (10 – < 25%), but it is a different product, with triethanolamine as its main component.

Frequently asked questions about TEA 85% Triethanolamine

What is TEA 85% and what is it used for?

It is industrial-grade triethanolamine with a total triethanolamine content of 84.0 to 85.0%. It is used mainly as a neutralizer for dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DDBSA) in household and industrial cleaners, to form emulsifying soaps with fatty acids and to adjust the pH of formulations.

How much TEA 85% do I need to neutralize sulfonic acid?

The technical data sheet gives a typical dosage of 0.4 to 0.5 kg of TEA 85% per kg of DDBSA. The exact amount is adjusted by measuring the pH of the mix up to the value your formula specifies.

What does it contain besides triethanolamine?

According to its safety data sheet, TEA 85% contains triethanolamine (75 to less than 90%) and diethanolamine (10 to less than 25%).

Is TEA 85% hazardous?

Yes, it is a chemical classified with the signal word "Danger": it causes serious eye damage and skin irritation, may be harmful if swallowed and may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure if swallowed. It must be handled with goggles or a face shield, nitrile or neoprene gloves and work clothing, in well-ventilated areas.

Why does the mix heat up when TEA is added to DDBSA?

Because the reaction of triethanolamine with strong acids is exothermic. That is why it must be added gradually, under constant agitation and into the aqueous phase of the formula.

Why does TEA 85% look thicker in winter?

Its viscosity increases at low temperature. The safety data sheet recommends warming it gently and homogenizing it before use.

Can it be used in cosmetics or food?

No. TEA 85% is an industrial-grade product, intended for the formulation of cleaners and other industrial products.

What materials can I store it in?

Avoid copper, aluminum and their alloys, which are incompatible with the product. Store it in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, ventilated place, away from oxidizers, acids, food and beverages.

Is TEA 85% dangerous goods for transport?

No. Its safety data sheet states that it is not regulated as dangerous goods for transport (no UN number, hazard class or packing group).

What documentation is included?

It is supplied with a technical data sheet (TDS) and a safety data sheet (HDS/SDS) in accordance with NOM-018-STPS-2015 and the GHS. A certificate of analysis per lot can be requested.

Where can I buy TEA 85% Triethanolamine in Mexico?

At Quimiconsult, from San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, with shipping throughout Mexico. You can buy it in our online store or contact our team for volume quotes and formulation technical support.

Other names and related terms for TEA 85%

TEA 85% Triethanolamine is known on the market under various chemical and trade names: TEA 85%, triethanolamine 85%, industrial-grade triethanolamine, industrial-grade TEA, 2,2′,2″-nitrilotriethanol, trietanolamina and CAS 102-71-6.

In purchasing, specification sheets and online searches it is also commonly found as: triethanolamine, TEA, triethanolamine price, what is triethanolamine used for, triethanolamine for detergents, triethanolamine for dishwashing liquid, sulfonic acid neutralizer, DDBSA neutralizer, neutralizing LABSA, TEA for sulfonic acid, triethanolamine soap, pH adjuster, bulk triethanolamine, triethanolamine Mexico, triethanolamine Monterrey, triethanolamine supplier, triethanolamine safety data sheet, triethanolamine technical data sheet.

These variations help cleaning-product manufacturers, formulators and industrial buyers find TEA 85% within Quimiconsult's raw-material catalog.

Why buy TEA 85% Triethanolamine from Quimiconsult?

Quimiconsult is a Mexican company with more than 30 years of experience in chemical specialties for industry. When you buy TEA 85% from Quimiconsult you get:

• An industrial-grade triethanolamine specified by its total triethanolamine (84.0 – 85.0%), color (max. 25 Klett) and density (1.12 – 1.13 g/mL at 20 °C).
• Technical data sheet, safety data sheet in accordance with NOM-018-STPS-2015 and a certificate of analysis per lot on request.
• Technical advice for formulating cleaners: sulfonic acid neutralization, pH adjustment and combination with other surfactants.
• The other raw materials for making detergents — sulfonic acid, sodium laureth sulfate, nonionic surfactants, preservatives and chelating agents — from a single domestic supplier.
• Shipping throughout Mexico from San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León.

Related products

• Biosan Linear Sulfonic Acid LABSA 96% — the sulfonic acid (DDBSA) neutralized with TEA 85% to obtain the anionic surfactant for dishwashing liquids and cleaners.
• LESS 70% Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) — anionic surfactant paste for detergents and shampoo.
• LESS 28% Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) — liquid version of SLES for detergents.
• NF 10 M Nonylphenol Ethoxylate 10 Moles — industrial-grade nonionic surfactant for cleaners and degreasers.
• APG 70% Alkyl Polyglucoside — biodegradable nonionic surfactant for cleaning formulations.
• Tetrasodium EDTA — chelating and sequestering agent for formulations in hard water.

Formulating a dishwashing liquid, an all-purpose cleaner or a degreaser? Contact us and we will help you build the formula with the raw materials in our catalog.