Triethylenetetramine (TETA) is an organic compound made up of four ethyleneamines. It is used in various industries for its binding and chelating properties, as well as in medical treatments for Wilson’s disease. TETA is created through a chemical reaction and can be found in products such as asphalt, textiles, building materials, fuels, and cleaners. It is also used in the creation of fireproof enclosures for electronics. TETA can have adverse effects such as iron deficiency anemia.
Triethylenetetramine (TETA) is made up of four ethyleneamines. TETA is an oily liquid, with an ammonia-like odor. The organic compound is naturally colorless until it undergoes oxidation with air, which has a yellowing effect. Industries ranging from asphalt to textile manufacturing incorporate the corrosive compound for its binding and chelating properties. Doctors also use TETA to treat Wilson’s disease.
The four amines that make up triethylenetetramine include a form of TETA, bis AEP, PEEDA, and a branched TETA. Chemists know bis AEP as bis (2-aminoethyl)amine plus (2-aminothyl) piperazine. PEEDA refers to the chemical NE ((2-aminethyl 2-aminoethyl) piperazine), and the branched TETA is tris-(2-aminoethyl)amine.
In a field called coordination chemistry, chemists refer to triethylenetetramine as trien. The substance has the ability to bind to two metal atoms, forming a coordinated complex. Chemical industries create TETA by heating ethylenediamine or ethanolamine/ammonia compounds over an oxide catalyst. The final product contains a collection of amines which are separated by distillation and sublimation, which is the conversion of a solid material directly into a gas.
Asphalt manufacturers use triethylenetetramine because the chemical reaction that occurs with other constituents of the product improves the overall properties of the asphalt for road conditions. When added to artificial or natural fabrics, the substance improves dye absorption and adhesion as well as imparting antistatic and flame retardant properties. Building materials, which include epoxies and other adhesives, can contain TETA because the bonding properties of the chemical allow these materials to cure or harden. Triethylenetetramine also acts as a surfactant in detergents and shampoos.
Automotive and marine fuels and oils often contain triethylenetetramine as an additive that prevents deposits from forming in engine parts. The compound is also found in industrial cleaners and preservatives due to its ability to bind potentially harmful metals and neutralize calcium. Manufacturers incorporate TETA into the materials they use to create enclosures for home electronics. The formulation guarantees a fireproof, light but resistant product.
Doctors may prescribe triethylenetetramine as a first-line treatment for patients with Wilson’s disease. The condition involves abnormal accumulations of copper in the body and causes symptoms and multiple organ failure. THETA chelates, or binds, to copper and carries the metal out of the body through the kidneys. Doctors also use TETA in patients who are intolerant or unresponsive to traditional lamina treatment. Possible adverse effects of triethylenetetramine include iron deficiency anemia, as the chemical also binds to and removes iron.
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