c20-22 alkyl phosphate is a chemical compound that belongs to the family of alkyl phosphates or alkyl phosphates, which are long-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons. These chemical compounds share a common phosphate core structure and differ in the identity of the alkyl chains attached to them. c20-22 alkyl phosphate is obtained by the reaction of C20-22 alcohols with phosphoric anhydride and contains approximately 1% phosphoric acid. Readily biodegradable.

C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate is a mixture of long-chain fatty alcohol phosphates with carbon chain lengths between 20 and 22. It is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products as an emulsifier, surfactant, and conditioning agent. Its primary role is to help stabilize formulations by improving the mixture of water and oil, while also providing skin and hair conditioning benefits.

Chemical Composition and Structure

C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate consists of fatty alcohols derived from long-chain hydrocarbons (with 20 to 22 carbon atoms) that have been phosphorylated to introduce phosphate groups. These phosphate groups confer emulsifying properties to the molecule, allowing it to interact with both water and oil phases in cosmetic formulations.

Physical Properties
This compound is usually found in a liquid or waxy solid form, depending on its specific formulation. It is soluble in oils and slightly soluble in water, making it useful for stabilizing emulsions. It contributes to a smooth texture in creams and lotions and helps enhance the feel of skin and hair products.

Production Process

It is produced by reacting long-chain fatty alcohols with phosphoric acid or its derivatives. This chemical reaction results in the introduction of phosphate groups onto the alkyl chains, which improves their emulsifying and surfactant properties. The process ensures a balance of hydrophilic (water-attracting) and lipophilic (oil-attracting) properties, making the compound suitable for use in a wide range of formulations.

• Synthesis of Alkyl Alcohols: The first step involves synthesizing long-chain alcohols, which can be obtained through the reduction of vegetable fats or through chemical processes such as the synthesis of linear alcohols from alkenes.

• Phosphorylation: The long-chain alcohols (C20-22) are then subjected to a phosphorylation process, where they are treated with phosphoric acid or phosphorus chloride. This reaction produces phosphoric esters, resulting in the formation of alkyl phosphates.

• Neutralization: To achieve the desired product, the reactive mixture may be neutralized, if necessary, using appropriate bases to balance any residual acidity.

• Purification: The resulting alkyl phosphates are purified using techniques such as distillation or chromatography to remove any impurities and obtain a high-quality product.

• Analysis and Packaging: Finally, the finished product is analyzed to verify its purity and chemical properties. After analysis, the alkyl phosphates are packaged for distribution and use.

Applications

• Skincare: Used as an emulsifier and conditioning agent in creams, lotions, and moisturizers to improve texture and hydration.

• Haircare: Included in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products to enhance hair softness and manageability while helping to stabilize formulations.

• Cosmetics: Utilized in makeup products to stabilize emulsions and improve the application and consistency of products like foundations and creams.

It is a surfactant, used as an emulsifier and anionic dispersant at low concentrations in sunscreens, skin creams, rinse-off products, make-up, moisturisers and hair care products. It effectively replaces film-forming polymers and has no preservatives.

Dosage:  ≤3%

INCI Functions:

Surfactant - Emulsifying agent. Emulsions are thermodynamically unstable and are used to soothe or soften the skin and emulsify, so they need a specific, stabilising ingredient. This ingredient forms a film, lowers the surface tension and makes two immiscible liquids miscible. A very important factor affecting the stability of the emulsion is the amount of the emulsifying agent. Emulsifiers have the property of reducing the oil/water or water/oil interfacial tension, improving the stability of the emulsion and also directly influencing the stability, sensory properties and surface tension of sunscreens by modulating the 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. 

Safety in Use
C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. It is non-irritating and suitable for most skin types, although individuals with very sensitive skin may want to conduct a patch test before widespread use.

Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate are uncommon, but as with all cosmetic ingredients, it’s recommended to test for sensitivity, especially for people with sensitive or reactive skin.

Toxicity and Carcinogenicity
It is considered safe by regulatory agencies for topical use in personal care products.

Environmental and Safety Considerations
C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate is biodegradable and does not pose significant environmental risks when used in the concentrations typical of cosmetic formulations. Proper disposal of products containing this ingredient is encouraged to avoid unnecessary release into the environment.

Regulatory Status
C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate is approved for use in cosmetics by regulatory bodies such as the European Union and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. It is regulated to ensure that it is used safely and in appropriate concentrations in personal care formulations.