Triethylamine, also known as N,N-diethylethanamine, TEN or N,N,N-Triethylamine, is a colorless, volatile liquid with a strong, unpleasant and fishy smell reminiscent of ammonia. From the chemical point of view it is a tertiary amine with formula N(C₂H₅)₃.

Triethylamine is commonly employed in organic synthesis as a base, most often in the preparation of esters with acid chlorides. Such reactions lead to the production of hydrochloric acid which, upon reacting with Triethylamine, forms the salt triethylamine hydrochloride. This both neutralizes the acid and shifts the reaction equilibrium to favour the ester formation. Triethylamine is also used for the preparation of quaternary ammonium compounds and in the synthesis of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, paints and coatings. As a catalyst Triethylamine is used to help cross-linking of polyurethane foams, but also for the synthesis of epoxy and phenolic resins. Other applications of Triethylamine include curing, hardening and corrosion inhibition for polymers and its use as a propellant.

Triethylamine is a flammable and corrosive liquid and should be handled with care. It is dangerous if inhaled or in contact with the skin and eyes: exposure can result in burns, mild soreness and possibly headache, nausea and vomiting. Triethylamine is also mutagenic in case of chronic exposure.

External links

• US EPA - Air Toxics Website

Amines

Triethylamin | トリエチルアミン