Triisopropanolamine

Triisopropanolamine (CAS 122-20-3), commonly abbreviated as TIPA, is a tertiary alkanolamine used across industrial and personal care sectors as a pH regulator, chelating agent, and crosslinker. Its dual amine-alcohol functionality makes it effective in neutralizing acidic systems and coordinating metal ions within complex formulations. In coatings and adhesives, TIPA acts as a crosslinking agent and curing accelerator.

This chemical improves film hardness and adhesion in alkyd and epoxy-based systems. Personal care formulators use it to neutralize carbomer and acrylate polymers, adjusting pH in creams, lotions, and gels. It functions without introducing harsh alkalinity to the final product. Water treatment applications rely on TIPA's chelating capacity to sequester calcium and magnesium ions, preventing scale formation in industrial process water.

In textile and leather processing, it functions as a pH buffer and auxiliary agent during dyeing and finishing operations. This supports consistent color uptake and surface treatment across various materials. Triisopropanolamine is supplied as a viscous liquid or low-melting solid, depending on grade and temperature handling. Standard commercial grades include technical and industrial specifications for diverse needs.

Purity levels are typically at 85% and 99% for most applications. Bulk supply is available in drums and IBC containers, with technical-grade product being the most common form for industrial procurement.