Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate is a chemical compound, an anionic surfactant derived from sugars It is a gentle and biodegradable surfactant derived from natural sources such as coconut oil and corn starch. It is commonly used in skin and hair care products, like shampoos and cleansers, for its effective yet non-irritating cleansing properties. This ingredient is particularly valued in natural and organic products for its plant-based origin and gentleness on the skin.
The name describes the structure of the molecule:
- Sodium indicates the presence of sodium ions, contributing to the solubility and stability of the compound.
- Lauryl refers to lauric acid, a fatty acid derived from coconut oil, providing cleansing and foaming properties.
- Glucose is a monosaccharide derived from corn starch, used to enhance the gentleness of the surfactant.
- Carboxylate indicates a functional group that improves water solubility and skin compatibility.
Raw Materials and Their Functions
Glucose. A simple sugar derived from natural sources such as corn or wheat. It provides the carbohydrate base for the formation of sodium lauryl glucose carboxylate.
Lauric Acid. A medium-chain fatty acid, often derived from coconut oil or palm oil. It is used to provide the lipid component of the surfactant.
Sodium. Used to neutralize the compound and form the sodium salt, improving the water solubility of the surfactant.
Industrial Chemical Synthesis of Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate
- Preparation. The process begins with the reaction of glucose with lauric acid to form a glucoside ester.
- Carboxylation. The glucoside ester is then carboxylated to introduce a carboxylic group into the molecule.
- Neutralization. The carboxylated product is neutralized with sodium to form the sodium salt, sodium lauryl glucose carboxylate.
- Purification. After the reaction, the product is purified to remove impurities and by-products.
- Quality Control. Sodium lauryl glucose carboxylate undergoes quality checks
Form and Color
Typically appears as a clear or slightly yellow liquid.
What it is used for and where
Cosmetics
Carboxylates are considered anionic surfactants to be included in cosmetic formulations as main agents.
Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate is used as a mild skin-friendly surfactant in shampoos and liquid soaps, provides proper skin hydration, has good foaming properties and is less sensitive to hard water.
Commercial applications:
Cosmetics and Cleaning Products Industry. Used as a gentle surfactant in skincare and haircare products, as well as in cleansers and soaps.
Cleansing Properties. Provides cleansing and foaming properties, while being gentler on the skin compared to other more aggressive surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate.
References_______________________________________________________________________
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