ETHOXYLATED LAURYL ALCOHOL, 3 MOLE

CAS Number:

68551-12-2 (Note: Some sources list 68439-50-9)

Chemical Formula:

C12H25(OCH2CH2)3OH

Primary Function:

Non-ionic surfactant, emulsifier, wetting agent, and foam booster

Uses:

This surfactant is versatile and used across multiple industries for its ability to reduce surface tension and blend oil and water.

· Personal Care: Acts as a foaming agent in shampoos and bath gels, and an emulsifier in creams and cleansers.

· Home & Industrial Cleaning: Serves as a wetting agent and detergent in laundry products, hard surface cleaners, and industrial degreasers.

· Other Industries: Used in textile processing, agricultural chemicals, and as a chemical intermediate.

Origin:

It is a semi-synthetic, non-ionic surfactant. It is produced by reacting lauryl alcohol (derived from coconut or palm oil) with 3 moles of ethylene oxide.

What does ETHOXYLATED LAURYL ALCOHOL do in a formulation?

Its primary functions are:

  • Surfactant / Cleansing
  • Emulsifying
  • Wetting Agent
  • Foam Boosting

 

Safety Profile:

· General Assessment: Alcohol ethoxylates like this are generally considered safe when used correctly and are known for good biodegradability.

· Key Consideration: They are distinct from alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs), which have greater environmental concerns.

Technical profile:

PropertyValues
AppearanceClear to slightly hazy liquid
Typical PropertiesNon-ionic surfactant, soluble in water, stable in acidic and alkaline conditions.
Molecular Weight~276 g/mol
Density~0.95 g/cm³

 

Summary:

 

Ethoxylated Lauryl Alcohol, 3 mole is a versatile, mild, non-ionic surfactant valued for its foaming, wetting, and emulsifying properties in personal care and cleaning products.