Oleth-20 is a chemical compound, 20 mol partially unsaturated alkyl polyethylene glycol (PEG (Polyethylene glycol)) ether omega-9 unsaturated 18 carbon chains with a variable polyethylene glycol (PEG (Polyethylene glycol)) ether of oleyl alcohol, ethoxylated.

Oleth-20 is a compound that belongs to the category of surfactants, specifically nonionic surfactants. These are compounds that reduce the surface tension between two substances, such as oil and water, making them more miscible. In the case of Oleth-20, it is primarily used as an emulsifier. 

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Oleth is derived from "oleo-", a prefix often used in chemistry to indicate a relation to oils or oleic acid. Oleic acid is a common monounsaturated fatty acid found in various animal and vegetable fats. The term "oleth" typically refers to compounds that are derived from oleic acid or have similar properties.
• -20 indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units in the molecule. Ethylene oxide is a chemical compound used to make ethoxylated compounds, which are used in a variety of applications including cosmetics. The number 20 suggests that, on average, there are 20 units of ethylene oxide per molecule in this compound.

In summary, "Oleth-20" refers to a specific type of ethoxylated compound derived from oleic acid, with an average of 20 ethylene oxide units. It is commonly used in cosmetic formulations as an emulsifier, surfactant, or solubilizer, helping to mix oil and water components and improve the texture and consistency of products like creams, lotions, and shampoos.

Description of Raw Materials and Their Functions

Oleic Oil. An oil derived from plant sources, such as olive oil, used as the base for the formation of Oleth-20. It provides the oleic component of the surfactant.

Ethylene Oxide. A chemical compound used to ethoxylate other compounds. It adds ethoxylated (EO) groups to the structure of oleic oil, increasing the water solubility of the surfactant.

Industrial Chemical Synthesis of Oleth-20

• Preparation. The synthesis begins with the reaction of oleic oil with ethylene oxide.
• Ethoxylation. During this process, ethoxylated groups are added to the oleic oil, forming Oleth-20. The number "20" indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units added.
• Reaction Control. The reaction is monitored to ensure that the correct number of ethoxylated units is added to the oleic oil.
• Purification. After ethoxylation, the product is purified to remove impurities and by-products.
• Quality Control and Packaging. Oleth-20 undergoes quality checks and is then packaged for use in detergent and cosmetic products.

Form and Color

It occurs as a white powder or a colorless or yellowish liquid.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Surfactant - Emulsifying agent. Emulsions are thermodynamically unstable. Emulsifiers have the property to reduce the oil/water or water/oil interfacial tension, improve emulsion stability and also directly influence the stability, sensory properties and surface tension of sunscreens by modulating their filmometric performance.

Surfactant - Cleansing agent. Cosmetic products used to cleanse the skin utilise the surface-active action that produces a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum, facilitating the removal of dirt and impurities.

CAS: 9004-98-2

Commercial Applications

In commercial applications, Oleth-20 is most commonly found in cosmetic and personal care products. Its main role in these products is to help mix ingredients that would otherwise separate, creating a stable, homogeneous product. This is especially important in products such as lotions, creams, and other skin care items, where a smooth, even consistency is desired.

In addition, Oleth-20 can also act as a cleansing agent. In products such as shampoos and bubble baths, it helps emulsify oils and dirt on the skin or hair, allowing them to be washed away with water. This makes it a versatile ingredient in a wide range of personal care products.

Its use is not limited only to cosmetics and personal care; Oleth-20 can also be found in some pharmaceutical applications. Here, its role as an emulsifier can be crucial in the formulation of certain drugs, ensuring that the active ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the product.

Safety

The term 'eth' refers to the ethoxylation reaction with ethylene oxide after which residues of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, chemical compounds considered carcinogenic, may remain. The degree of safety therefore depends on the degree of purity of the compound obtained. At present, no manufacturer is known to provide this information on the label.