Stearic Acid Ethoxylate: Product Description and Uses
Product Description
Stearic Acid Ethoxylate is a non-ionic surfactant derived from the ethoxylation of stearic acid, a long-chain fatty acid. This compound is characterized by its excellent emulsifying, wetting, and dispersing properties, making it a versatile ingredient in various industrial and consumer applications. Stearic Acid Ethoxylate is typically a pale yellow to amber liquid or solid, depending on the degree of ethoxylation and the specific formulation. It is soluble in water and organic solvents, which enhances its utility in diverse formulations.
Uses
Stearic Acid Ethoxylate is widely used across multiple industries due to its multifunctional properties. Some of the primary applications include:
- Personal Care Products: Used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in creams, lotions, and shampoos.
- Household Cleaning Products: Acts as a surfactant in detergents and cleaners, improving cleaning efficiency.
- Textile Industry: Serves as a wetting agent and softener in textile processing.
- Agriculture: Utilized as an adjuvant in pesticide formulations to enhance the spread and adhesion of active ingredients.
- Plastics and Coatings: Functions as a dispersing agent in paints, coatings, and plastic formulations.
Technical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Stearic Acid Ethoxylate |
| CAS Number | 9002-92-0 |
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber liquid |
| Molecular Weight | Varies with ethoxylation degree |
| HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance) | 12-15 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and organic solvents |
| pH (1% solution) | 5.0 – 7.0 |
| Flash Point | > 200 °C |
| Density | 0.9 – 1.1 g/cm³ |
| Viscosity | 100 – 500 cP |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (when stored properly) |
Key Features
- Non-Ionic Nature: Compatible with a wide range of other surfactants and formulations.
- Biodegradable: Environmentally friendly, breaking down into non-toxic byproducts.
- Versatile: Suitable for various applications across multiple industries.
Conclusion
Stearic Acid Ethoxylate is a valuable ingredient in many formulations due to its emulsifying and surfactant properties. Its versatility and compatibility with other ingredients make it a preferred choice in personal care, cleaning, textile, agricultural, and industrial applications.