Physical characteristics of triethanolamine and detailed application in different industry sectors Triethanolamine is a colorless to pale yellow transparent viscous liquid with a slight ammonia odor and a colorless to pale yellow cubic crystal at low temperatures. The color gradually darkens when exposed to the air. Soluble in water, ethanol, acetone, glycerin and ethylene glycol, etc., slightly soluble in benzene, ether and carbon tetrachloride, and almost insoluble in non-polar solvents. Irritating. It is hygroscopic. It can absorb acid gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide. Pure triethanolamine has no effect on steel, niobium, nickel and other materials, but is highly corrosive to copper, aluminum and its alloys. Unlike monoethanolamine and diethanolamine, triethanolamine and iodohydrous acid can form iodide precipitates. Combustible. Low toxicity. Avoid contact with oxidants and acids.