Triethanolamine

Other names: TEA

Harm score: 4 (Slightly harmful chemistry)

Triethanolamine (TEA) is an organic compound that is used in the chemical industry as an alkaline element, i.e. as a PH-increasing substance. It is a viscous liquid without colour and at room temperature has a characteristic ammoniacal odour. It is mainly used in the cosmetics industry, but also in the textile and construction industries. Triethanolamine is also commonly found in pharmaceutical products.

In cosmetic products such as creams, shampoos or make-up, triethanolamine acts as an emulsifier and helps to keep the individual ingredients of the product together so that they do not separate. Due to its pH neutral nature, it is also used as an acidity regulator in these products. In the textile industry, TEA is used as a component of industrial soaps and detergents precisely because of its emulsifying and cleaning properties. It is very good at removing unwanted substances such as grease, oil or wax from surfaces. In agriculture, triethanolamine is used as an ingredient in herbicides and in industry it is often used in the production of shaving foams or disinfectants. It also plays an important role in the construction industry, where it is added to concrete as a plasticizer to help improve its consistency and reduce the need for water during mixing.