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Send EmailTrietilenetetramin, Triethylene Tetramine, Triethylenetetramine, TETA, 112-24-3
Product Name: Triethylenetetramine (TETA)
Chemical Name: Triethylenetetramine
CAS No: 112-24-3
EC No (EINECS): 203-950-6
Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₈N₄
Molecular Weight: 146.23 g/mol
REACH Status: Registered
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | N,N'-bis(2-aminoethyl)ethane-1,2-diamine |
| Other Names | Triethylenetetramine, TETA, Triethylenetetramine, 2,2′-Iminobis(ethylamine), Tris(2-aminoethyl)amine, TETA |
| CAS Number | 112-24-3 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 203-950-6 |
| Molecular Formula | C₆H₁₈N₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 146.23 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Aliphatic polyamine, mixture of primary and secondary amines |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Odor | Ammonia-like |
| Taste | Not determined as technical product |
| REACH Status | Registered |
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND DESCRIPTION:
Triethylenetetramine (TETA) is an aliphatic polyamine containing four nitrogen atoms. Its structure contains two primary amine (-NH₂) groups and two secondary amine (-NH-) groups. This structure gives TETA high reactivity and strong basic character.
Structural Formula (Open Structure):
H₂N-CH₂-CH₂-NH-CH₂-CH₂-NH-CH₂-CH₂-NH₂
(N,N'-bis(2-aminoethyl)ethane-1,2-diamine)
These structural features:
Give TETA four reactive amine groups.
Provide high performance as a crosslinker in epoxy resins.
Exhibit chelating, corrosion inhibition, and surfactant properties.
Serve as a building block in polyamide resin production.
TETA is a polyamine widely used as an epoxy hardener, chelating agent, corrosion inhibitor, fuel additive, and in polyamide resin production.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₆H₁₈N₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 146.23 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Odor | Ammonia-like |
| Density (20 °C) | 0.98 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point | ~266 °C |
| Melting Point | -12 °C |
| Flash Point | ~135 °C (closed cup) |
| Vapor Pressure (20 °C) | <0.1 mmHg |
| Viscosity (20 °C) | ~10–15 mPa·s |
| Surface Tension | ~45 mN/m (20 °C) |
| Refractive Index (20 °C) | ~1.50 |
| Solubility | Completely miscible with water |
| Stability | Stable under recommended storage conditions |
| pH (aqueous solution) | Strongly basic (pH > 10) |
| Volatility | Low |
| Hygroscopicity | May absorb moisture; store in dry conditions |
TETA is a colorless to pale yellow liquid. Its boiling point is ~266 °C, melting point -12 °C. Its density is 0.98 g/cm³ (20 °C), flash point ~135 °C. Its vapor pressure is <0.1 mmHg at 20 °C. It is completely miscible with water. It exhibits strong basic character.
| Solvent | Solubility | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Completely miscible | 20 °C |
| Methanol | Miscible | - |
| Ethanol | Miscible | - |
| Isopropanol | Miscible | - |
| Acetone | Miscible | - |
| Ethyl acetate | Limited / partially soluble | - |
| Hexane | Insoluble | - |
| Toluene | Partially soluble | - |
| Xylene | Partially soluble | - |
| Glycols | Miscible | - |
TETA is readily soluble in polar solvents. It is completely miscible with water. It is insoluble in aliphatic hydrocarbons.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Class | Aliphatic polyamine |
| Reactivity | Epoxy ring opening, amidation, urethane formation, chelation |
| Basicity | Strongly basic |
| Hydrolytic Stability | High |
| Thermal Stability | Good |
| Oxidation Resistance | Moderate; tendency to yellow in air |
| Polymerization | Does not undergo hazardous spontaneous polymerization |
| Compatibility | Epoxy resins, acids, anhydrides, isocyanates, metal ions |
| Substances to Avoid | Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, carbon dioxide |
| Hazardous Decomposition Products | Nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), ammonia |
Thanks to its four amine groups, TETA undergoes rapid crosslinking reactions with epoxy resins. It forms salts with acids, amides with anhydrides, and urethanes with isocyanates. It forms chelate complexes with metal ions. Due to its strongly basic character, it undergoes neutralization reactions in acidic media.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Purity (GC) | ≥ 98.0% |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Color (Pt-Co) | ≤ 50 Hazen |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.5% |
| Acid Value | ≤ 0.1 mg KOH/g |
| Density (20 °C) | 0.975–0.985 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Range | 260–270 °C |
| Flash Point | ≥ 130 °C |
| Refractive Index (20 °C) | 1.495–1.505 |
| Viscosity (20 °C) | 10–15 mPa·s |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (under proper storage) |
TETA is produced in technical grade with high purity. In industrial applications, batch-to-batch consistency, color stability, and low impurity content are important.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Epoxy Hardener | Provides room temperature curing |
| Adhesives | High adhesion strength |
| Coatings | Chemical resistance and hardness |
| Composites | Mechanical strength and thermal stability |
TETA is a widely used hardener for epoxy resins. It provides fast curing and high performance.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Metal Ion Binding | Chelates metal ions such as Cu, Ni, Zn, Fe |
| Water Treatment | Heavy metal removal |
| Cleaning Products | Dissolves scale and metal residues |
| Agriculture | Micronutrient chelator |
Thanks to its strong chelating property, TETA binds metal ions.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Metal Protection | Prevents corrosion on iron and steel surfaces |
| Oil and Gas | Corrosion inhibitor in pipelines |
| Cooling Systems | Corrosion control |
| Automotive | Antifreeze and cooling fluids |
TETA prevents corrosion by forming a protective film on metal surfaces.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Diesel Fuels | Injector cleaning and corrosion prevention |
| Gasoline | Reduces carbon deposits |
| Lubricants | Anti-wear additive |
TETA improves engine performance as a fuel additive.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Polyamide Resins | High-strength polymers |
| Adhesives | Industrial adhesives |
| Coatings | Durable coatings |
| Fibers | Synthetic fiber production |
TETA is used as a monomer in the production of polyamide resins.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Surfactants | Cationic surfactant synthesis |
| Ion Exchangers | Anion exchange resins |
| Pharmaceutical Intermediates | Pharmaceutical synthesis |
| Textiles | Softener and dye auxiliary |
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Structural Class | Aliphatic polyamine |
| Functional Groups | Two primary amines, two secondary amines |
| Basicity | Strongly basic |
| Chelation | Strong metal binding |
| Epoxy Reactivity | High |
| Evaporation Profile | Low |
| Water Miscibility | Completely miscible |
| Polarity | High polarity |
The four amine groups of TETA give it high reactivity and versatile functionality.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Epoxy Curing | Room temperature crosslinking |
| Amidation | Amide formation with acids |
| Urethane Formation | Reaction with isocyanates |
| Chelation | Metal ion binding |
| Neutralization | Salt formation in acidic media |
| Corrosion Inhibition | Protective film on metal surfaces |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | Acute Tox. 4 (H302), Skin Corr. 1B (H314), Skin Sens. 1 (H317), Aquatic Chronic 3 (H412) |
| Oral LD50 (Rat) | ~2500 mg/kg |
| Dermal LD50 (Rabbit) | > 2000 mg/kg |
| Skin Irritation | Causes severe skin burns (H314) |
| Eye Irritation | Causes serious eye damage (H314) |
| Respiratory Irritation | Vapor inhalation may irritate the respiratory tract |
| Skin Sensitization | May cause an allergic skin reaction (H317) |
| Mutagenicity | Not classified |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Bioaccumulation | Not likely |
| WGK Germany | 2 (hazardous to water) |
TETA is a corrosive and toxic chemical. It causes severe burns on contact with skin and eyes. It may cause allergic skin reactions. It has long-lasting harmful effects on aquatic life. Appropriate PPE must be used in industrial handling.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | UN 2259 |
| Hazard Class | 8 (Corrosive substances) |
| Packing Group | II |
| Proper Shipping Name | Triethylenetetramine |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
| ADR/RID Label | Class 8 |
| Transport Regulations | Must be transported in accordance with ADR/RID/IMDG/IATA rules |
TETA is classified as a corrosive liquid. Transport must comply with ADR/RID/IMDG/IATA regulations.
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| EU | REACH registered |
| USA (TSCA) | Listed |
| EINECS | 203-950-6 |
| Turkey (KKDİK) | Should be evaluated within compliance and registration requirements |
| Food Contact | Not suitable for technical grade |
| Hazardous Substance | Yes (corrosive, toxic) |
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Temperature | 15–25 °C |
| Container Requirements | Closed containers, away from moisture and heat sources |
| Moisture Control | Dry environment to prevent moisture absorption |
| Substances to Avoid | Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, carbon dioxide |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (under proper storage) |
| Handling Notes | Avoid breathing vapor; use PPE |
| Packaging Options | 200 L steel drums, IBC tanks, bulk delivery; custom packaging upon request |
Handling Notes:
Avoid breathing vapor.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, mask).
Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
Keep away from ignition sources.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Combustible liquid; vapor/air mixture may be flammable |
| Flash Point | ~135 °C (closed cup) |
| Extinguishing Media | Water spray, foam, CO₂, dry chemical powder |
| Special Hazards | Thermal decomposition may release NOx, CO, CO₂, and ammonia |
| Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing |
TETA is a combustible liquid. In case of fire, appropriate extinguishing media should be used, and firefighting personnel should wear protective equipment.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Respirator, protective goggles, gloves, protective clothing |
| Ventilation | Ventilate the area |
| Containment | Contain the spill |
| Cleaning Methods | Absorb with inert material; place in suitable disposal container |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water sources |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose of according to local regulations |
In case of a spill, clean up while preventing vapor formation. Dispose of waste properly. Prevent environmental release.
| Exposure Route | Action |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of water, remove contaminated clothing, seek medical attention |
| Eye Contact | Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes, seek immediate medical attention |
| Ingestion | Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention |
| Raw Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Ethylene Oxide | Precursor in TETA synthesis |
| Ammonia | Used in amination reaction |
| Dichloroethane | Intermediate |
| By-Product | Application |
|---|---|
| Epoxy Hardeners | Adhesives, coatings |
| Polyamide Resins | Fibers, plastics, adhesives |
| Chelating Agents | Water treatment, agriculture |
| Corrosion Inhibitors | Oil, gas, automotive |
| Fuel Additives | Engine performance |
| Industry | Application Area | Example Use | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epoxy | Hardener | Adhesives, coatings | High |
| Water Treatment | Chelation | Heavy metal removal | High |
| Oil and Gas | Corrosion inhibitor | Pipelines | High |
| Automotive | Fuel additive, antifreeze | Engine, cooling systems | Suitable |
| Polyamide | Monomer | Fibers, plastics | High |
| Textiles | Softener, dye auxiliary | Textile processing | Suitable |
TETA can undergo many chemical reactions due to its four amine groups:
| Reaction | Description |
|---|---|
| Epoxy Ring Opening | Crosslinking with epoxy resins |
| Amidation | Amide formation with carboxylic acids |
| Urethane Formation | Polyurethane formation with isocyanates |
| Chelation | Complex formation with metal ions |
| Neutralization | Salt formation with acids |
| Carbamate Formation | Carbamate formation with CO₂ |
TETA derivatives are widely used in epoxy, polyamide, water treatment, and corrosion protection applications.
| Compound | Description |
|---|---|
| Diethylenetriamine (DETA) | Similar polyamine; epoxy hardener |
| Tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA) | Similar polyamine; epoxy hardener |
| Ethylenediamine (EDA) | Similar polyamine; chemical intermediate |
| Piperazine | Cyclic diamine; TETA derivative |
| Aminoethylpiperazine (AEP) | TETA derivative; epoxy hardener |
| Polyamide Resins | TETA-based polymers |
SUMMARY:
Triethylenetetramine (TETA) is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with the formula C₆H₁₈N₄ and CAS number 112-24-3. It is an aliphatic polyamine containing four amine groups. It is widely used as an epoxy resin hardener, chelating agent, corrosion inhibitor, fuel additive, and in polyamide resin production. It exhibits strong basic character. It is completely miscible with water. It is a corrosive and toxic chemical; it causes severe burns to skin and eyes. It may cause allergic skin reactions. It has long-lasting harmful effects on aquatic life. It should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area in tightly closed containers.
Key Properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Chemical Formula | C₆H₁₈N₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 146.23 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 112-24-3 |
| Boiling Point | ~266 °C |
| Melting Point | -12 °C |
| Density | 0.98 g/cm³ (20 °C) |
| Flash Point | ~135 °C (closed cup) |
| Vapor Pressure | <0.1 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Solubility | Completely miscible with water |
| Chemical Class | Aliphatic polyamine |
| Primary Use | Epoxy hardener, chelation, corrosion inhibitor |
Main Applications:
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Epoxy | Hardener, adhesive, coating |
| Water Treatment | Chelation, heavy metal removal |
| Oil and Gas | Corrosion inhibitor |
| Automotive | Fuel additive, antifreeze |
| Polyamide | Monomer, resin production |
| Textiles | Softener, dye auxiliary |
Key Safety Points:
TOXIC: Acute Tox. 4 (H302) – harmful if swallowed
CORROSIVE: Skin Corr. 1B (H314) – causes severe skin burns and eye damage
SKIN SENSITIZER: Skin Sens. 1 (H317) – allergic skin reaction
ENVIRONMENTAL: Aquatic Chronic 3 (H412) – long-lasting harmful effects to aquatic life
STORAGE: 15–25 °C, cool, dry, well-ventilated
PPE RECOMMENDED: Gloves, protective goggles, respirator, protective clothing
INCOMPATIBLE: Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, carbon dioxide
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
TETA is an aliphatic polyamine containing four amine groups. It shows high reactivity.
It provides room temperature curing in epoxy resins.
It binds metal ions with strong chelating properties.
It protects metal surfaces as a corrosion inhibitor.
It is used as a monomer in polyamide resin production.
It is a corrosive and toxic chemical; it causes severe burns to skin and eyes.
It may cause allergic skin reactions; it can cause skin sensitization.
It has long-lasting harmful effects on aquatic life; environmental release must be prevented.
It is a combustible liquid; it should be kept away from ignition sources.
Vapor inhalation may irritate the respiratory tract; good ventilation should be provided.
Important Statement: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on available data and is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their own specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, use, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are obligated to test the product in their own processes and applications. All local, national, and international regulations must be followed when working with TETA.