1,3,5-Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)cyanuric Acid CAS 839-90-7: Industrial Applications and Benefits

1,3,5-Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)cyanuric acid, commonly known as Tris(2-hydroxyethyl) Isocyanurate (THEIC) or Tris 2-hydroxyethyl Isocyanurate, is a high-performance triazine-based chemical widely used in industrial formulations. Its CAS 839-90-7 uniquely identifies this compound in chemical databases, ensuring precise sourcing and consistent quality for industrial applications. THEIC is prized for its thermal stability, multifunctionality, and chemical resistance, making it a preferred additive in coatings, resins, polymers, adhesives, and industrial detergents.

I. Overview of THEIC (CAS 839-90-7)

THEIC is a triazine derivative with three hydroxyl functional groups, which provide excellent reactivity with polyols, epoxy groups, and other resin components. These hydroxyl groups allow THEIC to act as a crosslinking agent, stabilizer, and performance enhancer, improving mechanical properties, thermal resistance, and chemical durability of industrial products.

Key properties of 1,3,5-Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)cyanuric acid:

• Molecular formula: C₉H₁₅N₃O₆
• Triazine ring structure ensures high thermal and chemical stability
• Soluble in water and common organic solvents
• Low toxicity and environmentally friendly profile

II. Industrial Applications of CAS 839-90-7

1. High-Performance Polyurethane and Coatings

THEIC is extensively used in polyurethane and industrial coatings as a crosslinker and stabilizer:

Mechanical Performance: Its three hydroxyl groups react with polyols to form highly crosslinked networks, improving hardness, scratch resistance, and flexibility.

Thermal Stability: THEIC-based coatings can withstand high operating temperatures without yellowing or degradation, ideal for industrial machinery, automotive coatings, and protective finishes.

Chemical Resistance: Resistant to solvents, acids, and alkalis, making it suitable for coatings in harsh industrial environments.

Example: Adding 3–5% THEIC to a polyurethane coating can increase hardness by up to 20% and enhance solvent resistance significantly, reducing maintenance costs in industrial equipment.

2. Flame Retardant Materials

THEIC’s nitrogen-rich triazine structure makes it an effective additive in flame-retardant polymers:

Enhances fire resistance of epoxy resins, polyester resins, and thermoplastics

Provides flame retardancy without adding heavy metals, supporting eco-friendly material design

Improves char formation in case of high-temperature exposure, reducing flammability

Example: In thermoplastic composites, incorporating 2–4% THEIC can help achieve UL94 V-0 flame rating, widely required in electronics and automotive components.

3. Industrial Detergents and Cleaning Agents

THEIC is applied in high-performance industrial detergents for:

Stabilization: Maintains chemical efficacy under high temperature and prolonged use

Chelation: Helps bind metal ions in hard water, enhancing cleaning efficiency

Durability: Improves long-term storage stability and reduces degradation of active ingredients

Example: In heavy-duty metal cleaning solutions, THEIC ensures consistent performance over multiple cleaning cycles, reducing the need for frequent reprocessing.

4. Adhesives, Sealants, and Polymer Additives

THEIC improves bonding strength, thermal resistance, and mechanical stability in adhesives and sealants:

Epoxy and polyurethane adhesives: Hydroxyl groups of THEIC form strong crosslinks with resins, increasing adhesive strength and water resistance.

Polymer composites: Enhances rigidity and dimensional stability, particularly in high-performance plastics used in aerospace, automotive, and electronics.

Thermoplastic modification: Acts as a stabilizer, reducing thermal deformation and improving chemical resistance.

5. Water Treatment and Industrial Formulations

THEIC is occasionally used in industrial water treatment and specialty chemical formulations:

Stabilizes active ingredients in complex water treatment systems.

Enhances performance of dispersants, scale inhibitors, and anti-corrosion additives.

Provides long-term chemical stability in high-temperature or high-pH conditions.

III. Key Advantages of THEIC (CAS 839-90-7) in Industry

High Thermal Stability: Can withstand extreme temperatures without degradation, suitable for coatings, adhesives, and polymers.

Excellent Chemical Resistance: Compatible with acids, bases, solvents, and oxidizing agents.

Crosslinking Capability: Forms strong, durable networks in polyurethane, epoxy, and polyester systems.

Flame Retardant Properties: Nitrogen content contributes to fire safety without heavy metals.

Versatility Across Industries: From coatings and adhesives to detergents and polymers, THEIC improves performance and longevity.

Eco-Friendly Profile: Biodegradable and low toxicity, aligning with industrial sustainability goals.

IV. Conclusion

1,3,5-Tris(2-hydroxyethyl)cyanuric acid CAS 839-90-7 is a high-value industrial chemical offering thermal stability, chemical resistance, crosslinking ability, and flame retardancy. Widely used in coatings, adhesives, polymers, and industrial detergents, THEIC enhances product durability, performance, and safety. Integrating Tris(2-hydroxyethyl) Isocyanurate into industrial formulations is an effective way to improve both technical quality and operational efficiency.