EGDS

Chemical Name:

Ethylene Glycol Distearate. Often referred to simply as EGDS

 CAS Number:

 627-83-8 (for the pure compound). Commercial grades are often mixtures and may use 91031-31-1

Molecular Formula:

C38H74O4

Molecular Weight:

 595.0 g/mol (theoretical)

Common Form:

 White to off-white flakes, beads, or waxy solid. It has a characteristic mild, fatty odor.

Uses:

EGDS is a non-ionic, pearlescent wax ester primarily valued for its ability to create a luxurious, opaque, pearlescent sheen in products. It is a staple in personal care and detergent formulations.

Primary Applications:

· Personal Care & Cosmetics: Its dominant application. Used as a pearlizing and opacifying agent in shampoos, conditioners, liquid soaps, shower gels, and creams to impart a rich, opaque, pearly appearance.

· Detergents & Cleaners: Used in liquid dish soaps, fabric softeners, and household cleaners to provide a pearlescent, premium visual effect and contribute to viscosity.

· Industrial Applications: Can act as a lubricant, softening agent, or opacifier in various wax blends, polishes, and textile formulations.

What does Ethylene Glycol Distearate do in a formulation?

· Pearlescent/Opacifying Agent: Its primary function. It forms microscopic crystalline platelets in the product that reflect light, creating the characteristic pearl luster and hiding the transparency of the base.

· Viscosity Modifier/Thickener: Contributes to the rheology, helping to build viscosity and improve the "body" or texture of liquid formulations.

· Emollient & Skin Feel Enhancer: Leaves a soft, smooth, and sometimes silky after-feel on skin and hair.

· Emulsion Stabilizer: Can help stabilize oil-in-water emulsions due to its surfactant-like properties.

· Lubricant: Provides lubricity in certain industrial applications.

Safety Profile (Critical):

· Hazard Classification: Generally considered low hazard. It is not classified as a skin sensitizer, mutagen, or carcinogen. It is non-toxic and biodegradable.

· Skin/Eye Contact: The solid or molten material is not typically irritating. Dust from flakes/powder may cause mild mechanical eye irritation.

· Inhalation: Low hazard. Inhalation of dust may cause respiratory tract irritation.

· Ingestion: Considered low toxicity if ingested in small amounts (typical of consumer product exposure).

· Environmental Impact: Readily biodegradable and is not considered bioaccumulative.

· Required PPE: Basic industrial hygiene: safety glasses to prevent dust contact, and gloves when handling hot, molten material. A dust mask is recommended when handling powder in enclosed spaces.

· Handling Note: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and open flames. When melting, use equipment with temperature control as overheating can degrade the material.

Technical profile: