Trideceth-11 is a chemical compound, 13 carbon chains alkyl polyethylene glycol (PEG (Polyethylene glycol)) ether of ethoxylated fatty Tridecyl alcohol.

The name describes the structure of the molecule

• Tridec refers to tridecyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol with a chain of 13 carbons, which forms the basis of the molecule.
• -eth indicates that ethylene oxide units have been added to the molecule.
• -11 means that, on average, 11 ethylene oxide units are added to each molecule of tridecyl alcohol.

Description of raw materials used in production

• Tridecyl alcohol. A fatty alcohol that can be sourced from vegetal origins or synthesized.
• Ethylene oxide. A highly reactive gaseous compound.

Step-by-step summary of industrial chemical synthesis process

• Preparation of tridecyl alcohol. Tridecyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol with a chain of 13 carbon atoms, is derived from natural sources or synthesised from petrochemical precursors.
• Ethoxylation. Tridecyl alcohol is reacted with ethylene oxide in the presence of a basic catalyst, typically potassium hydroxide.
• Neutralization. The product can be neutralized if necessary.
• Purification. The product may be purified via distillation or other methods to remove any impurities.

It appears as a colorless liquid or whitish gel.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Cleansing agent. Ingredient that cleanses skin without exploiting the surface-active properties that produce a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum. 

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  24938-91-8  generic

EC number   

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.

Commercial Applications

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products. Trideceth-11 is often used as an emulsifying or solubilizing agent in cosmetic formulations, such as shampoos, body washes, and skin products.

Industry. It might be used in the manufacture of industrial soaps and cleansers due to its surfactant properties.