CarCareTruth

Diethanolamine (DEA)

  • Bases
  • CAS 111-42-2
  • IUPAC: 2,2'-iminobis(ethanol)

Mild skin and eye irritant at concentrate. No H-codes at typical product concentrations. DEA has some historical concern around nitrosamine formation in cosmetics when combined with nitrosating agents, but this is not a standard concern in automotive formulations.

Diethanolamine is an alkanolamine used as a pH buffer, emulsifier, and foam stabilizer in wax and liquid polish formulations. It adjusts the pH of the formulation and helps stabilize emulsions between water and oil/solvent phases. At 0.1–2% in automotive waxes and glazes, it contributes minimal health or environmental risk. The historical nitrosamine concern (relevant in cosmetics with nitrosating agents) is not a standard issue in auto-care applications.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
yes
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
3/5
Purpose: pH buffer, emulsifier, and foam stabilizer in wax and polish formulations

1 product contain this

Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.