Castor Oil Ethoxylates Castrox 540

Castor Oil Ethoxylates (Castrox 540) are surfactants derived from castor oil through the process of ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide is added to the hydroxyl groups of castor oil molecules. Castrox 540 is a specific grade of castor oil ethoxylate that is typically used as a nonionic surfactant with a variety of industrial, commercial, and personal care applications.

General Description:

• Product Name: Castrox 540 (Castor Oil Ethoxylate)
• Chemical Structure: Castor oil is primarily composed of ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that contains a hydroxyl group. Ethoxylation involves adding ethylene oxide molecules to these hydroxyl groups, which increases the water solubility of the castor oil.
• Type: Nonionic Surfactant
• Appearance: It typically appears as a clear to light yellow liquid or a viscous liquid (depending on the specific formulation and concentration).
• Molecular Weight: The molecular weight will vary based on the number of ethylene oxide units added to the castor oil molecule, which typically corresponds to a product like Castrox 540.

Key Properties:

1. Surfactant Properties:

   • As a nonionic surfactant, Castrox 540 works by reducing the surface tension between liquids, making it an excellent emulsifier and dispersant. It helps mix oils and water, which don't normally blend well.
   • It is mild, which makes it suitable for use in products designed for skin contact or delicate applications.

2. Water Solubility:

   • Castor oil ethoxylates like Castrox 540 are water-soluble, which is beneficial in creating formulations that require emulsification or dispersion of oily ingredients in aqueous systems.

3. Emulsifying and Wetting Agent:

   • Castrox 540 is commonly used as an emulsifier, allowing oils and water to blend together more easily. This property is useful in a wide range of formulations, from cosmetics to industrial cleaning agents.

4. Biodegradability:

   • Because it is derived from castor oil, a renewable plant resource, Castrox 540 is biodegradable and more environmentally friendly than some synthetic surfactants.

5. Mildness and Low Toxicity:

   • Castor oil ethoxylates, including Castrox 540, are generally regarded as mild, meaning they are less likely to irritate the skin and eyes compared to harsher surfactants.

Common Applications of Castrox 540:

1. Cosmetics and Personal Care:

   • Emulsifier in Creams and Lotions: Castrox 540 is commonly used in cosmetic formulations like moisturizers, lotions, creams, and ointments as an emulsifying agent, helping to blend oils and water in these products.
   • Shampoos and Conditioners: It acts as a mild cleansing agent, helping to emulsify oils and improve the texture and performance of the product.
   • Surfactant in Cleansers: Due to its ability to lower surface tension, Castrox 540 is often used in facial and body cleansers.