Triethylamine
Description
Triethylamine (CAS 121-44-8), commonly abbreviated as TEA or NEt3, is a tertiary amine used across pharmaceutical synthesis, polymer production, and specialty chemical manufacturing. It functions primarily as a base and acid scavenger in chemical reactions.
The compound serves as a catalyst in condensation and polymerization processes. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, TEA neutralizes hydrogen halide byproducts during API synthesis, protecting reaction intermediates and improving yield quality.
Polymer producers use it as a catalyst in polyurethane and polycarbonate production, where controlled basicity influences chain growth and final material properties. This ensures consistent performance in industrial applications.
In food flavoring applications under FEMA 4246, it contributes to specific flavor profiles at trace concentrations in approved formulations. It also functions as a curing agent and accelerator in epoxy resin systems.
Its reactivity directly affects pot life and cure rate, which are critical parameters for industrial formulators. Triethylamine is supplied as a colorless liquid in standard packaging ranging from drums to ISO tank containers.
Technical grade and pharmaceutical grade meeting USP or BP specifications are the most commonly sourced options. Buyers in regulated industries typically require certificate of analysis documentation for their records.
These documents confirm purity levels of 99% or higher to ensure process stability. Our supply chain ensures that all chemical shipments meet the rigorous demands of global manufacturing and safety standards.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -114.7 °C |
| Boiling Point | 89.3 °C |
| Density | 0.7255 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Flash Point | 20 °F |
| Appearance | Triethylamine is a colorless liquid. Strong ammonia odor. |
| Color | Clear |
| Odor | Strong ammonia-like odor |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 133 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 51.75 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.401(lit.) |
| pH | 12.7 (100g/l, H2O, 15℃)(IUCLID) |
| Log P | 1.65 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29211910 |
| UN Number | 1296 |
| ADR Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Storage Class | 3 - Flammable liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
NEt3|N,N,N-triethylamine|N,N-Diethylethanamine|(diethylamino)ethane|(C2H5)3N|Ethanamine, N,N-diethyl-|VOU728O6AY|TEN [Base]|TEA
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