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Glite Dictionary
triethanolamine

triethanolamine

1 8.4
A chemical used in cosmetics and cleaners to mix oil and water, change acidity, and stop metal rust
  • noun
  • /ˌtraɪˌɛθəˈnɔləˌmiːn/
  • Specialized
: trietanolamina
  • Many lotions contain triethanolamine for better texture.

Examples

  • The laboratory ordered a new supply of triethanolamine for use in their experiments.

  • Many metalworking fluids contain triethanolamine to prevent corrosion in machinery.

  • Safety guidelines require proper handling of triethanolamine due to its chemical properties.

  • The manufacturer uses triethanolamine as a pH adjuster.

  • In the formulation of many detergents, triethanolamine serves as an effective pH adjuster to improve cleaning performance.

  • Due to its properties as a corrosion inhibitor, triethanolamine is often included in industrial cleaning solutions.

  • Cosmetic manufacturers often utilize triethanolamine to help stabilize emulsions in their products.

Surface Forms

triethanolamine singular
triethanolamines plural

Morphology

triethanolamine = ethanolamine (transparent) = tri + ethanolamine

Formed by the productive chemical prefix 'tri-' (three) attached to the established chemical base 'ethanolamine'; the meaning is compositionally clear for learners familiar with the components.

Etymology

Triethanolamine breaks into tri- 'three', ethanol 'alcohol', and amine 'like ammonia'. Because it has three alcohol parts and an ammonia-like part, it can mix oil and water, change acidity, and help protect metal, which is why it is used in cosmetics, detergents, and industry.