Triethanolamine is a colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid with a slight ammonia-like odor at room temperature. It is highly hygroscopic and readily soluble in polar solvents such as water and alcohols. Its molecule contains one tertiary amino group and three hydroxyl groups, which result in relatively weak alkalinity but strong hydrophilicity. As a weak base, it can react with acids to form salts and exhibits excellent emulsifying, pH buffering, and metal ion chelating capabilities. Its main applications include serving as an important pH adjuster, emulsifier, and humectant widely used in personal care and cosmetic products such as skincare items, shampoos, and shaving creams. In industrial fields, it is employed as a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids, a cement grinding aid, a desulfurization absorbent, and a catalyst in polyurethane reactions and rubber vulcanization.