A grinding aid is a specialty chemical agent used to make it easier to grind and mix cement. Specifically, grinding aids prevent cement particles from re-agglomeration, or re-adhering, during and after the grinding process. Grinding aids make it possible to streamline the cement-making process by increasing process efficiency and material fluidity. These benefits of cement grinding aid use also contribute to lower energy costs on the part of industrial mills.

Triisopropanolamine(TIPA) is used as a cross-linker in special niche water-based coating applications. The cement and concrete industries use TIPA as a grinding aid, and it is used in concrete admixtures. TIPA is used as a neutralizing agent in agricultural products and water borne coatings.

Applications of TIPA:
Cement & Concrete --Improves the grinding efficiency resulting in energy savings;
-prevents from agglomeration or clumping; as water reducing agent.
Rubber curing-- Chain terminator in isoprene polymerization.
Polyurethane--Used as Cross-linker to improve PU foam quality.
Metal working-- To improve corrosion protection, antioxidant.