TEA 85%

Description

• Chemical Composition: Triethanolamine (TEA) is an organic compound that is a viscous, colorless liquid with a slight ammonia-like odor. The “85%” concentration refers to the purity of TEA in the solution, with the remaining 15% typically being water.
• Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₅NO₃
• Properties: TEA is highly soluble in water and alcohol, making it versatile for use in various formulations. It functions as a base and can neutralize acids, creating stable emulsions.

Uses

• pH Adjuster: TEA is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products to adjust the pH level of formulations, ensuring product stability and skin compatibility.
• Emulsifier: It helps in forming and stabilizing emulsions in creams, lotions, and other products by reducing the surface tension between oil and water phases.
• Surfactant: TEA is used in shampoos, body washes, and cleansers to enhance foaming and cleansing properties.
• Buffering Agent: It acts as a buffering agent in various formulations, maintaining consistent pH levels.
• Corrosion Inhibitor: In industrial applications, TEA is used as a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids.

Benefits

• Versatility: TEA’s ability to function as a pH adjuster, emulsifier, and surfactant makes it a valuable ingredient in a wide range of products.
• Stability: By adjusting and stabilizing pH levels, TEA helps improve the shelf life and efficacy of cosmetic and personal care formulations.
• Improved Texture: TEA aids in creating smooth and creamy textures in emulsions, enhancing the sensory qualities of creams and lotions.
• Enhanced Foaming: In cleansers and shampoos, TEA contributes to improved foaming action, which enhances the user experience.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Its multifunctional nature allows formulators to achieve multiple effects with a single ingredient, reducing the need for additional additives.

Triethanolamine 85% is a versatile ingredient widely used in both cosmetic and industrial applications due to its ability to enhance the stability, texture, and performance of various products.

Personal Care and Cosmetic Products

1. pH Adjustment:
   • Typical Usage: 0.1% to 1.0%
   • TEA is used to adjust the pH of formulations to ensure stability and skin compatibility.
2. Emulsification:
   • Typical Usage: 0.5% to 3.0%
   • TEA can be combined with fatty acids to create emulsifying agents, helping to stabilize creams and lotions.
3. Surfactant Products (Shampoos, Cleansers):
   • Typical Usage: 0.5% to 5.0%
   • Used to enhance foaming and cleansing properties.

Industrial Applications

1. Metalworking Fluids:
   • Typical Usage: 0.1% to 2.0%
   • Acts as a corrosion inhibitor and helps maintain the stability of the fluid.
2. Textile and Leather Processing:
   • Typical Usage: 0.5% to 2.0%
   • Used as a pH adjuster and emulsifier.

Formulation Considerations

• Skin Sensitivity: Higher concentrations of TEA can cause irritation in sensitive individuals. Therefore, formulations for leave-on products typically use lower concentrations than rinse-off products.
• Regulatory Guidelines: Different countries may have specific regulations regarding the maximum allowable concentration of TEA in consumer products, so it’s important to consult local guidelines.
• Compatibility: TEA should be carefully formulated with other ingredients to avoid unwanted interactions, particularly with certain preservatives or active ingredients that may be sensitive to pH changes.