Triethylamine

CAS: 121-44-8

Overview

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

Danger GHS02 GHS05 GHS06 GHS07 GHS08 GHS09 Hazard Statements H225 Highly Flammable liquid and vapor H301 Toxic if swallowed H302 Harmful if swallowed H311 Toxic in contact with skin H312 Harmful in contact with skin H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H318 Causes serious eye damage H331 Toxic if inhaled H332 Harmful if inhaled H335 May cause respiratory irritation H370 Causes damage to organs H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H373 May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H401 Toxic to aquatic life H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking. P233 Keep container tightly closed. P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment. P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment. P242 Use non-sparking tools. P243 Take action to prevent static discharges. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P262 Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P361+P364 Take off immediately all contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P370+P378 Use … for extinction. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P403+P235 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep cool. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P303+P361+P353 IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29211910
UN Number	1296
ADR Class	3
Packing Group	II
Storage Class	3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany)	1

Other Names

Industries

Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Plastics & Polymers Food & Nutrition