Triethanolamine


 * Triethanolamine **, often abbreviated as ** TEA ** , is an [|organic compound] that is both a tertiary [|amine] and a triol. A triol is a [|molecule] with three [|alcohol] [|groups] . Like other amines, triethanolamine is a [|strong base] . Triethanolamine can also be abbreviated as ** TEOA ** , which can help to distinguish it from [|triethylamine] . Approximately 150000 metric tons were produced in 1999.It is a colourless compound although samples may appear yellow because of impurities.

Triethanolamine is produced from the reaction of [|ethylene oxide] with aqueous [|ammonia], also produced are [|ethanolamine] and [|diethanolamine]. The ratio of the products can be controlled by changing the stoichiometry of the reactants.



Allergic reactions
A 1996 study found that Triethanolamine (TEA) occasionally causes contact allergy.A 2001 study found TEA in a [|sunscreen] caused an allergic contact dermatitis.A 2007 study found TEA in [|ear drops] caused a contact allergy.Systemic and respiratory tract (RT) toxicity was analyzed for 28 days in a nose specific inhalation 2008 study in Wistar rats; TEA seems to be less potent in regard to systemic toxicity and RT irritancy than diethanolamine (DEA). Exposure to TEA resulted in focal inflammation, starting in single male animals from 20 mg/m3 concentrations. A 2009 study stated patch test reactions reveal a slight irritant potential instead of a true allergic response in several cases and also indicated the risk of skin sensitization to TEA seems to be very low.

Tumors
Reports indicated that TEA causes an increased incidence of [|tumor growth] in the liver in female B6C3F1 mice, but not in male mice or in Fischer 344 rats.A 2004 study concluded "TEA may cause liver tumors in mice via a choline-depletion mode of action and that this effect is likely caused by the inhibition of choline uptake by cells."

Environmental toxicity
A 2009 study found that TEA has potential acute, sub-chronic and chronic toxicity properties in respect to aquatic species.

Regulation
TEA is listed under [|Schedule 3, part B] of the [|Chemical Weapons Convention] as it can be used in the manufacture of [|nitrogen mustards].