TRIISOPROPANOLAMINE (TIPA)

1. Chemical Identity and Material Classification

Chemical Name: Triisopropanolamine, Tris(2-hydroxypropyl)amine, 1,1',1''-Nitrilotri-2-propanol
Synonyms: TIPA, Tris(2-hydroxypropyl)amine, Nitrilotripropanol, Tri-2-propanolamine, 1,1',1''-Nitrilotripropan-2-ol, AMIX TI
CAS Number: 122-20-3
Molecular Formula: C₉H₂₁NO₃
Molecular Weight: 191.27 g/mol
EC Number (EINECS): 204-528-4
MDL Number: MFCD00004533
Chemical Class: Tertiary alkanolamine (tertiary amine + three primary alcohol groups)
BRN: 1071570
RTECS: UB8750000
UN Number: 3259 (Amines, solid, corrosive, n.o.s.)

2. Physical Properties

2.1 General Physical Properties (Anhydrous TIPA)

Property	Value
Appearance	White to pale yellow crystalline solid
Physical state (20°C)	Solid (crystalline)
Odor	Slight amine odor
Molecular weight	191.27 g/mol
Density (20°C)	1.0 g/cm³ (approx. 1.00–1.02)
Melting point	48–52°C (118–126°F)
Boiling point (at 23 mmHg)	190°C (374°F)
Boiling point (at 760 mmHg, calculated)	~310°C (decomposes before boiling)
Flash point (closed cup)	160°C (320°F) – combustible
Autoignition temperature	275°C (527°F)
Explosive limits (vol% in air)	Lower: 0.8%; Upper: 5.8%
Vapor pressure (100°C)	1 hPa (0.75 mmHg)
Refractive index (estimated, nD20)	1.4200
pKa (predicted)	14.37 ± 0.20 (very basic)
pH (100 g/L solution, 20°C)	10.8 (alkaline)
log P (octanol/water, 23°C)	-0.015 (very hydrophilic)

2.2 Thermal Properties

Parameter	Value
Heat of combustion	Not specified
Decomposition temperature	>200°C (slow decomposition)
Specific heat capacity	Not specified

3. Low Freeze Grade (TIPA LFG 85)

TIPA LFG 85 is a low freeze grade blend of TIPA with 15% water to lower the freezing point for easier handling, especially in cold climates and automated dosing systems.

Property	TIPA LFG 85
Composition	85% TIPA + 15% deionized water
Appearance	Clear to pale yellow liquid
Physical state (20°C)	Liquid (pourable)
Freezing point	~13°C (55°F)
Density (20°C)	~1.02–1.05 g/cm³
pH (as supplied)	10.5–11.0
Form at 20°C	Liquid (easy handling, pumpable)

Advantages of LFG 85:

Eliminates need for heated storage and handling equipment
Pumpable at room temperature
Reduces processing time (no melting required)
Ideal for automated dosing systems
Maintains all chemical performance of anhydrous TIPA

4. Solubility and Solution Properties

4.1 Solubility in Various Solvents

Solvent	Solubility	Temperature
Water	Soluble (>1000 mg/mL)	25°C
Water	Soluble	20°C
Ethanol	Soluble	20°C
Diethyl ether	Soluble	20°C
Chloroform	Slightly soluble	20°C
Acetone	Soluble	20°C

4.2 Aqueous Solution Properties

Parameter	Value
pH (100 g/L solution, 20°C)	10.8 (alkaline)
Heat of dilution with water	Exothermic (heats up)

5. Chemical Properties

5.1 Molecular Structure

TIPA is a tertiary alkanolamine consisting of:

One tertiary amine group (N with no N–H bonds) – reacts with acids, CO₂, H₂S; does not form nitrosamines
Three primary alcohol groups (OH) – undergo typical alcohol reactions
Chiral centers at each 2-carbon (mixture of stereoisomers)

Structure: (HOCH₂CH(CH₃))₃N (N,N,N-Tris(2-hydroxypropyl)amine)

5.2 Chemical Reactivity

Reaction Type	Description
Acid neutralization	Forms amine salts with mineral and organic acids
CO₂ absorption	Forms carbonate/bicarbonate salts (gas sweetening, amine scrubbing)
Esterification	With fatty acids → alkanolamide emulsifiers
Quaternization	With alkylating agents → quaternary ammonium compounds
Isocyanate reaction	Forms urethanes (polyurethane chain extender/crosslinker)
Epoxy reactions	Reacts with epoxides → polyols

5.3 Key Properties of TIPA (Advantages)

Property	Benefit
No N–H bond	Does not form nitrosamines (non-carcinogenic)
Three OH groups	Excellent water solubility, good hydrogen bonding
Highly basic	Effective neutralizer for acids
Branched structure	Good emulsification and stabilization properties
Thermally stable	Stable up to 200°C
Non-volatile	Low vapor pressure; minimal evaporative loss

5.4 Stability

Parameter	Behavior
Stability	Stable under normal conditions
Hygroscopicity	Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air)
Air sensitivity	May absorb CO₂ from air to form carbonate
Light sensitivity	May discolor upon prolonged light exposure
Thermal stability	Stable up to 150°C; decomposes slowly at higher temperatures

5.5 Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents
Strong acids (exothermic neutralization)
Acid anhydrides and acid chlorides
Isocyanates (exothermic reaction)
Halogenated compounds

6. Quality Specifications

6.1 Anhydrous TIPA (Commercial Grade)

Parameter	Specification
Purity (TIPA, w/w)	≥ 98.0%
Water content (K. Fischer)	≤ 0.5%
Color (APHA)	≤ 50 (fresh; may yellow with age)
Density (20°C)	1.00–1.02 g/cm³
Melting point	48–52°C
Equivalent weight	191.27 g/eq
Mono + Diisopropanolamine content	≤ 1.5%
Iron (Fe)	≤ 10 ppm
pH (100 g/L solution)	10.8 ± 0.5

6.2 TIPA LFG 85 (Low Freeze Grade)

Parameter	Specification
Composition	85% TIPA + 15% deionized water
TIPA content (w/w)	85 ± 1%
Water content	15 ± 1%
Appearance	Clear to pale yellow liquid
Freezing point	~13°C (55°F)
Density (20°C)	1.02–1.05 g/cm³
pH (as supplied)	10.5–11.0
Color (APHA)	≤ 50
Equivalent weight (100% basis)	191.27 g/eq

6.3 High Purity Grade (Pharma/Specialty)

Parameter	Specification
Purity (TIPA, w/w)	≥ 99.0%
Water content	≤ 0.2%
Mono + Diisopropanolamine	≤ 0.5%
Heavy metals (as Pb)	≤ 10 ppm
Residue on evaporation	≤ 0.05%

7. Production Methods

7.1 Reaction of Ammonia with Propylene Oxide (Industrial Standard)

Reaction: NH₃ + 3CH₃CH(O)CH₂ → (HOCH₂CH(CH₃))₃N (plus MIPA, DIPA mixture)
Process: Ammonia reacts with excess propylene oxide under controlled conditions → mixture of mono-, di-, and triisopropanolamines → separation by distillation
Excess propylene oxide: Used to favor TIPA formation
Catalyst: Water (acts as catalyst)
Temperature: 20–120°C (exothermic; cooling required)
Pressure: <0.5 MPa (5 bar)
Yield: Variable (depends on ratio)
Co-products: Monoisopropanolamine (MIPA) and Diisopropanolamine (DIPA)

7.2 Purification

Fractional distillation under reduced pressure
Vacuum dehydration to water content <5%

8. Industrial Applications

8.1 Cement Grinding Aids (Primary Application)

Parameter	Value
Application	Additive in cement production to improve grinding efficiency and reduce energy consumption
Function	Prevents agglomeration of cement particles; improves flowability; increases mill throughput
Typical dosage	0.01–0.1% by weight of cement
Benefits	Reduces grinding energy by 10–20%; improves cement strength; enhances powder flowability
Industry standard	Widely used in cement grinding (TIPA is the preferred amine for this application)

Why TIPA for cement?

Excellent dispersant properties
Prevents particle agglomeration during grinding
Improves cement flowability and pack set resistance
Increases early strength development

8.2 Surfactants and Emulsifiers

Parameter	Value
Application	Intermediate for surfactant production; emulsifier for oils and fats
Derivatives	Alkanolamide emulsifiers, esterquats
End products	Detergents, emulsifiers, dispersants, wetting agents
Benefits	Excellent solubilizer of oils and fats; heat and color stability; low formulation costs

8.3 Metalworking Fluids

Parameter	Value
Application	Corrosion inhibitor, pH adjuster, emulsifier in metalworking fluids, lubricating oils, and cutting oils
Function	Neutralizes acidic components, improves lubricity, prevents rust
Typical concentration	1–10% in concentrate
Benefits	Heat stability; color stability; good solubilizer of oils

8.4 Gas Treating (Amine Scrubbing)

Parameter	Value
Application	Removal of acid gases (CO₂, H₂S) from natural gas, refinery gas, synthesis gas
Typical concentration	10–30% in aqueous solution
Advantages	Non-volatile; low degradation; does not form nitrosamines (no N–H bond)
Limitations	Lower CO₂ capacity than MEA/MDEA

8.5 Polyurethane Industry

Parameter	Value
Application	Chain extender, crosslinking agent, catalyst for polyurethane foams and elastomers
Function	Reacts with isocyanates to form urethane linkages; provides branching
Typical concentration	0.5–5% by weight

8.6 Textile and Fiber Industry

Parameter	Value
Application	Refining agent, antistatic agent, dyeing aid, fiber wetting agent
Function	Removes natural impurities; reduces static charge; improves dye penetration
Typical concentration	0.5–5 g/L

8.7 Cosmetics and Personal Care

Parameter	Value
Function	pH adjuster, emulsifier, buffering agent, antioxidant
Typical products	Creams, lotions, shampoos, conditioners
INCI name	Triisopropanolamine
Typical concentration	0.1–2% (as pH adjuster); 1–5% (as emulsifier)

8.8 Paints and Coatings

Parameter	Value
Application	Neutralizing agent, pH adjuster, dispersant for pigments (TiO₂, minerals)
Function	Neutralizes acidic components; stabilizes water-based coatings; disperses pigments
Benefits	Imparts alkalinity, buffering, and basicity

8.9 Photographic Chemicals

Parameter	Value
Application	Solvent for photo developer solutions
Function	Maintains alkaline pH in developer baths

8.10 Pharmaceutical Industry

Parameter	Value
Application	Raw material for pharmaceutical synthesis; excipient; pH adjuster
Function	Building block for APIs; salt formation

8.11 Agricultural Chemicals

Parameter	Value
Application	Neutralization of acidic herbicides (e.g., 2,4-D, glyphosate, MCPA)
Function	Forms water-soluble amine salts
Advantage	Non-volatile; low odor; stable formulations

8.12 Antioxidant and Plasticizer

Parameter	Value
Application	Antioxidant in lubricating oils and cutting oils; plasticizer in plastics
Function	Prevents oxidation; improves flexibility

9. Comparison with Other Alkanolamines

Property	TIPA	MIPA	DIPA	MEA	DEA
Structure	Tertiary	Primary	Secondary	Primary	Secondary
N–H bonds	0	2	1	2	1
Molecular weight	191.27	75.11	133.19	61.08	105.14
Melting point	48–52°C	1.4°C	42–45°C	10.5°C	28°C
Boiling point	190°C (23 mmHg)	160°C	249–250°C	170°C	268°C
pH (100 g/L)	10.8	11.0–11.5	~11	12.0	11.0
Nitrosamine formation	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Water solubility	High	Very high	High	Very high	Very high
Primary use	Cement grinding, surfactants	Textiles, surfactants	Gas treating, metalworking	Gas treating	Gas treating, surfactants

10. Toxicology and Safety

10.1 Acute Toxicity

Parameter	Value
Oral LD₅₀ (rabbit)	4,000 mg/kg (moderate toxicity)
Dermal LD₅₀ (rabbit)	10,000 mg/kg (low toxicity)
Eye irritation	Irritating (R36 – Irritating to the eyes)
Skin irritation	Mild irritant
Inhalation	Dust may cause respiratory tract irritation
Skin sensitization	Not a skin sensitizer

10.2 Chronic Toxicity

Endpoint	Classification
Carcinogenicity	Not classified as carcinogen – does not form nitrosamines (no N–H bond)
Mutagenicity	Negative
Reproductive toxicity	Not classified
Aquatic toxicity	R52/53 – Harmful to aquatic organisms; may cause long-term adverse effects

10.3 GHS Classification (EU CLP)

Classification	Category
Signal word	Warning
Hazard statements	H319 – Causes serious eye irritation
	H412 – Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Precautionary statements	P264, P280, P305+P351+P338, P337+P313, P273, P501

10.4 NFPA Rating

Health	Flammability	Instability
2 (Moderate)	1	0

10.5 Occupational Exposure Limits

Authority	Limit	Type
ACGIH TLV	Not established	N/A
OSHA PEL	Not established	N/A
Supplier recommended	10 mg/m³ (as amine dust)	TWA (8 hour)

11. Safety Precautions and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hazards:
- Causes serious eye irritation (H319)
- Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects (H412)
- Hygroscopic – absorbs moisture from air
- Combustible – keep away from ignition sources
- Dust may be irritating
PPE (recommended):
- Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Safety glasses (EN 166) or chemical goggles – mandatory for eye hazard
- Protective clothing (dust protection)
- Dust mask (FFP2/N95) – for powder handling
Engineering controls:
- Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) for dust control
- Eyewash stations and safety showers
First aid:
- Eye contact: Rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes; remove contact lenses; seek medical attention
- Skin contact: Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do NOT induce vomiting; drink water; seek medical attention

12. Environmental Fate

Parameter	Value
Biodegradability	Readily biodegradable
Aquatic toxicity (fish)	Moderate (H412 – Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects)
Bioaccumulation	Low potential (log P < 1)
WGK Germany	1 (low hazard to water)
EU classification	R52/53 – Harmful to aquatic organisms; may cause long-term adverse effects

13. Storage and Handling

13.1 Handling Precautions

Parameter	Recommendation
Ventilation	Use adequate ventilation; local exhaust for dust control
Personal hygiene	Wash thoroughly after handling; do not eat, drink, or smoke in work area
Spill response	Sweep up or collect; avoid dust generation

13.2 Storage Conditions (Anhydrous TIPA)

Parameter	Requirement
Temperature	Store below 30°C (room temperature)
Container	Keep tightly closed in original container (HDPE, polypropylene, or lined steel)
Prevent from	Moisture (hygroscopic); freezing (will solidify at room temperature)
Incompatibles	Separate from strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, acid chlorides, isocyanates
Environment	Cool, dry, well-ventilated area; protect from direct sunlight

13.3 Storage Conditions (TIPA LFG 85)

Parameter	Requirement
Temperature	Store above 15°C to maintain liquid state
Freezing point	~13°C – store >13°C to prevent crystallization
Container	HDPE drums, IBC, bulk tanks
Advantages	No heating required in most climates; pumpable at room temperature

13.4 Container Materials

Container Type	Anhydrous TIPA	TIPA LFG 85
HDPE	Suitable	Suitable
Polypropylene	Suitable	Suitable
Stainless steel (304, 316)	Suitable	Suitable
Carbon steel	Not recommended	Not recommended
Aluminum	Not suitable	Not suitable

14. Transport Information

Regulation	Classification
UN Number	3259
Proper shipping name	Amines, solid, corrosive, n.o.s. (Triisopropanolamine)
ADR/RID	Class 8 (Corrosive), Packing group II
IMDG	Class 8, PG II
IATA	Class 8, PG II
DOT	Class 8, PG II
Hazard label	Corrosive (8)
Marine pollutant	No
TIPA LFG 85 (solution)	Check local regulations; may not be regulated as hazardous for transport

15. Synonyms and Common Names

English: Triisopropanolamine, TIPA, Tris(2-hydroxypropyl)amine, Nitrilotripropanol, Tri-2-propanolamine, 1,1',1''-Nitrilotri-2-propanol, 1,1',1''-Nitrilotripropan-2-ol, 1,1',1''-Nitrilotris(2-propanol), AMIX TI
Trade names: TIPA LFG 85 (low freeze grade), Triisopropanolamine 85% (LFG)
French: Triisopropanolamine
German: Triisopropanolamin
Spanish: Triisopropanolamina
Turkish: Triizopropanolamin, TIPA

16. Regulatory Status

Regulation	Status
TSCA (US)	Listed
REACH (EU)	Registered (active)
EINECS	204-528-4
FDA	Indirect food contact permitted (as component of adhesives, paper/paperboard)
EU Cosmetics Regulation	Permitted as pH adjuster/emulsifier
Canada DSL	Listed
Australia AICS	Listed

17. Why Choose Triisopropanolamine (TIPA)?

Advantage	Description
Cement grinding efficiency	Industry standard for cement grinding aids – reduces energy consumption by 10–20%
No nitrosamine formation	Tertiary amine (no N–H bond) – does not form potentially carcinogenic nitrosamines
Excellent emulsifier	Good solubilizer of oils and fats; heat and color stability; low formulation costs
Effective pH adjuster	Strong base (pH 10.8 at 100 g/L) – neutralizes fatty and sulfonic acids
Non-volatile	Low vapor pressure – minimal evaporative loss; low odor
Biodegradable	Environmentally friendly; readily biodegradable
LFG 85 grade available	Low freeze point (13°C) – liquid at room temperature; no heating required
Thermally stable	Stable up to 200°C – suitable for high-temperature applications
Versatile	Used in cement, surfactants, metalworking, polyurethanes, textiles, cosmetics, paints

Limitations:

Solid at room temperature (anhydrous) – requires melting or LFG grade for easy handling
Eye irritant – requires PPE (goggles)
Hygroscopic – absorbs moisture from air
Combustible – flash point 160°C; keep away from ignition sources
Aquatic toxicity – H412 – harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects (avoid release to environment)

18. Typical Applications Summary Table

Sector	Application	Typical Concentration	Alternatives
Cement Industry	Grinding aid	0.01–0.1% by weight cement	DEA, TEA, glycols
Surfactants	Emulsifier, intermediate	1–20% of formulation	DEA, TEA
Metalworking	Corrosion inhibitor, pH adjuster	1–10% in concentrate	DIPA, DEA, TEA
Gas Treating	CO₂/H₂S removal	10–30%	MEA, MDEA, DIPA
Polyurethanes	Chain extender, crosslinker	0.5–5%	Other alkanolamines
Cosmetics	pH adjuster, emulsifier	0.1–5%	TEA, AMP
Paints/Coatings	Neutralizer, dispersant	0.1–1%	AMP, ammonia, TEA
Textiles	Refining agent, antistatic	0.5–5 g/L	DIPA, other alkanolamines
Agriculture	Herbicide neutralization	Stoichiometric	Other amine salts
Photography	Developer solvent	1–10%	MEA, DEA

19. TIPA LFG 85 vs. Anhydrous TIPA

Property	Anhydrous TIPA	TIPA LFG 85
Form at 20°C	Solid (crystalline)	Liquid
TIPA content	≥ 98%	85%
Water content	≤ 0.5%	15%
Freezing point	48–52°C	~13°C
Handling	Requires melting (heated storage)	Pumpable at room temperature
Storage	Requires heated storage (30–60°C)	Ambient (above 15°C)
Dosing	Batch melting required	Direct dosing
Applications	All applications	All applications (may require dosage adjustment for water content)
Cost per active	Lower (more concentrated)	Higher (contains water)

20. Summary Table – Key Specifications at a Glance

Parameter	Anhydrous TIPA	TIPA LFG 85
Product Name	Triisopropanolamine	Triisopropanolamine LFG 85
CAS Number	122-20-3	122-20-3
Molecular Formula	C₉H₂₁NO₃	C₉H₂₁NO₃ + H₂O
Molecular Weight	191.27 g/mol	N/A (blend)
Appearance	White to pale yellow solid	Clear to pale yellow liquid
TIPA Content	≥ 98%	85%
Freezing Point	48–52°C	~13°C
Density (20°C)	1.00–1.02 g/cm³	1.02–1.05 g/cm³
pH (100 g/L)	10.8	10.5–11.0 (as supplied)
Flash Point	160°C	>100°C
Water Solubility	Soluble (>1000 g/L)	Soluble
log P	-0.015	-0.015
Primary Applications	Cement grinding, surfactants, metalworking	Cement grinding, surfactants, metalworking (easier handling)
GHS Signal Word	Warning	Warning
Hazard Statements	H319, H412	H319, H412
Biodegradability	Readily biodegradable	Readily biodegradable

This TDS is prepared in compliance with ISO 11014-1 format and is intended for cement industry professionals, surfactant formulators, metalworking fluid specialists, polyurethane chemists, cosmetic formulators, and procurement professionals. Certificates of Analysis (CoA), Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and sample validation reports are available upon request.

Triisopropanolamine, TIPA, 122-20-3