Triethanolamine is an oily liquid with a mild ammonia odor. Denser than water. Freezing point is 71°F. (USCG, 1999)Triethanolamine is a tertiary amino compound that is ammonia in which each of the hydrogens is substituted by a 2-hydroxyethyl group. It has a role as a buffer and a surfactant. It is a tertiary amino compound, a triol and an amino alcohol. It derives from a triethylamine. It is a conjugate base of a triethanolammonium.

Triethanolamine is a chemical raw material. Its functions are reflected in chemical products: it can be used as an emulsifier for oils and waxes, a rust inhibitor, an acid gas absorbent, and a wetting agent in daily chemicals. In addition, it also acts as a catalyst to a certain extent, neutralizing acidic components to protect polyurethane foam composites.