Triethanolamine (85% Grade)
Pharcos TEA 85
Also known as: TEA 85 | Trolamine | 2,2',2''-Nitrilotriethanol
Pharcos TEA 85 is an aqueous mixture containing ~85% Triethanolamine (TEA) and ~15% Diethanolamine (DEA) / water. It functions as a weak organic base. In cosmetics, it is the industry-standard chemical used to neutralize Carbomer polymers to instantly form thick, clear gels (like hand sanitizer). It is also reacted directly with Stearic Acid during the manufacturing process to form TEA-Stearate, a superb emulsifier for shaving creams. Industrially, it is used as a highly effective grinding aid to prevent the agglomeration of cement particles during milling.
Quick Information
- Product Line:
- Personal Care
- Category:
- pH Adjusters
- Grade:
- Liquid
- CAS Number:
- 102-71-6
Key Applications
- Carbomer Neutralizer
- Stearic Acid Saponification
- pH Adjuster
- Cement Grinding Aid
How It Works
Neutralization and gel formation.
Polymers like Carbomer are supplied as tightly coiled, acidic powders. When dispersed in water, the liquid remains thin and acidic (pH ~3). When TEA 85 is added drop-by-drop, the amine nitrogen acts as a base, neutralizing the carboxylic acid groups on the polymer. As these groups become negatively charged, they violently repel each other. This electrostatic repulsion forces the polymer chain to abruptly uncoil and swell enormously, instantly transforming the thin liquid into a rigid, highly viscous, crystal-clear gel.
Technical Information
Common questions about Triethanolamine (85% Grade)
Cost and freezing point. TEA 99% can freeze solidly in winter warehouses (freezing point ~21°C). TEA 85% contains water/DEA which significantly lowers the freezing point, making it pumpable year-round without expensive heated storage tanks.
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