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:
| Property | Values |
| Appearance | Clear to slightly hazy liquid |
| Typical Properties | Non-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.