Triisopropanolamine, TIPA, 122-20-3

Triisopropanolamine, TIPA, 122-20-3

TRIISOPROPANOLAMINE (TIPA)

Triisopropanolamine / TIPA / Tris(2-hydroxypropyl)amine

CAS Number: 122-20-3

EC Number: 204-528-4

1. IDENTIFICATION

2. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

3. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Key Chemical Features:

• Sterically hindered tertiary amine structure

• Contains three hydroxyl (-OH) groups

• Effective neutralizing agent for acidic components

• Acts as a pH buffer

• Can form salts with mineral and organic acids

4. PRODUCTION PROCESS

Reaction Equation (Simplified):

NH₃ + 3 C₃H₆O → N(CH₂CHOHCH₃)₃
(Ammonia + Propylene oxide → TIPA)

5. APPLICATIONS

5.1. Cement Industry – Grinding Aid (Primary Use – Most Important)

Mechanism: TIPA adsorbs on cement particle surfaces, reducing agglomeration and improving grindability. It also enhances the hydration of belite (C₂S), increasing late-age strength without affecting early strength.

5.2. Polyurethane Industry

5.3. Rubber Industry

5.4. Metalworking Fluids

5.5. Paints & Coatings

5.6. Surfactants & Emulsifiers

5.7. Agrochemicals (Pesticides & Herbicides)

5.8. Pharmaceutical & Cosmetics

5.9. Textile Industry

6. BENEFITS IN CEMENT APPLICATIONS

Comparison with TEA (Triethanolamine):

• TIPA provides superior late-age strength (28 days) compared to TEA 

• TIPA shows better thermal stability for high-temperature curing 

• TIPA is preferred for tropical infrastructure projects

7. QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS

8. GRADES AVAILABLE

9. STORAGE & HANDLING

Storage Notes:

• Product solidifies below 45°C. To liquefy, warm to 50-60°C.

• Solidification is normal and does not affect product quality.

• Store in dry environment to prevent moisture absorption.

10. SAFETY & HEALTH INFORMATION

GHS Classification

Hazard Statements (H-Codes)

Precautionary Statements (P-Codes)

Toxicological Information

Health Effects:

• Eyes: Causes serious eye irritation 

• Skin: Causes skin irritation; generally not a sensitizer 

• Inhalation: May cause respiratory tract irritation 

• Ingestion: Low toxicity

NFPA 704 (Estimated)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

First Aid Measures

11. FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

12. ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION

13. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

14. REGULATORY INFORMATION

15. SYNONYMS & OTHER NAMES

Database Identifiers:

• CAS: 122-20-3

• EC: 204-528-4

• MDL: MFCD00004533 

• PubChem CID: 24730 

• Beilstein Reference: 1071570 

• UNII: W9EN9DLM98 

16. SUMMARY

Triisopropanolamine (TIPA, CAS 122-20-3) is a tertiary alkanolamine widely used as a cement grinding aid and strength enhancer. It improves grinding efficiency, reduces energy consumption, and significantly increases late-age compressive strength (28-day) in concrete.

Key Features:

Main Application Areas:

Key Safety Points:

• EYE IRRITANT – Causes serious eye irritation 

• SKIN IRRITANT – Causes skin irritation 

• AQUATIC TOXICITY – Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects 

• HYGROSCOPIC – Absorbs moisture; store in sealed containers

17. IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Cement Grinding Aid Specialist: TIPA is specifically known for enhancing late-age strength (28 days and beyond) in cement, whereas TEA (Triethanolamine) is better for early strength . This makes TIPA particularly valuable for high-performance concrete and infrastructure projects.

2. Physical State: TIPA is a solid at room temperature (melting point 45-52°C). It is commonly handled as a molten liquid (heated to 50-60°C) or as an aqueous solution (85%, 90%). Solidification is normal and does not indicate quality issues.

3. Dosage in Cement: Typical TIPA dosage in cement grinding is 0.01-0.1% of cement weight. Higher dosages may be used for specific performance requirements.

4. Synergy with TEA: TIPA is often used in combination with TEA (Triethanolamine) in cement grinding aid formulations to achieve both early and late strength benefits.

5. Not a Superplasticizer: While TIPA is used as a cement additive, it is primarily a grinding aid and strength enhancer, not a high-range water reducer (superplasticizer). However, it does provide moderate water reduction.

6. Hygroscopicity: TIPA absorbs moisture from air. For moisture-sensitive applications, keep containers tightly sealed. Moisture absorption may affect product performance in critical applications.

7. Storage Life: Higher purity grades (98%+) have shorter shelf life (typically 6-12 months). Lower purity grades (85%) in aqueous solution have longer stability .

8. Handling Temperature: When handling solid TIPA, warm to 50-60°C to liquefy. Use appropriate heating methods (drum heaters, warm room). Do not overheat above 80°C to prevent degradation.

9. Environmental Considerations: TIPA is harmful to aquatic life. Avoid release to water bodies. Industrial effluents containing TIPA should be treated before discharge .

10. Alternatives: For cement applications, alternatives include:

    • TEA (Triethanolamine): Better for early strength, lower cost

    • DEIPA (Diethanolisopropanolamine): Similar performance profile

    • Polycarboxylate ethers: Superplasticizers for water reduction

Important Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. For complete safety, handling, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.