Alcohols, C12-14-secondary, ethoxylated (CAS 84133-50-6) — Sweet Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Sweet · Green

Alcohols, C12-14-secondary, ethoxylated

CAS 84133-50-6

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Alcohols, C12-14-secondary, ethoxylated?

Ethoxylated C12-14 alcohols are synthetic surfactants commonly found in household cleaners, personal care products, and industrial formulations. They help blend oil and water components. These ingredients matter because they provide effective cleaning while being less harsh than traditional surfactants, making them suitable for sensitive skin applications.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Safe in regulated products
⚠ Avoid prolonged direct contact
CAS
84133-50-6
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Sweet · Green
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Alcohols, C12-14-secondary, ethoxylated Smell Like?

Ethoxylated C12-14 alcohols typically have a mild, slightly fatty odor with a faintly sweet undertone. The scent is clean and neutral, often described as non-invasive and background-like. It lacks the sharpness of shorter-chain alcohols, presenting more as a subtle waxy note that blends seamlessly into formulations without dominating the fragrance profile.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

These compounds belong to the class of ethoxylated alcohols, created by reacting linear C12-14 alcohols with ethylene oxide. The resulting molecules have both hydrophobic (alkyl chain) and hydrophilic (ethoxylate) portions, making them effective surfactants. The degree of ethoxylation can vary, affecting properties like solubility and foaming capacity.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid
SolubilitySoluble in water and most organic solvents

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Low
Blending
Functional
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Cleaning Products5-15%1-20%Primary surfactant
Personal Care1-5%0.5-10%Mild cleansing agent
Industrial10-30%5-50%Emulsifier and wetting agent

Classic Accords

Tip: Use as a base surfactant in cleaning formulations where mildness is required.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Sodium Laureth Sulfate CAS 9004-82-4

When higher foaming capacity is needed in personal care products.

2
Decyl Glucoside CAS 68515-73-1

For natural formulations requiring plant-derived surfactants.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

Not restricted by IFRA. Commonly used in various applications.

RIFM Assessment

Considered safe for use in current applications by RIFM.

Sustainability

Synthesized from petrochemical feedstocks, though efforts exist to develop bio-based alternatives. Biodegradability varies with degree of ethoxylation, with shorter chains generally degrading more readily. Proper wastewater treatment is recommended to minimize environmental impact.

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References

  1. PubChem Compound Summary for Alcohols, C12-14-secondary, ethoxylated PubChem
  2. EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients List EPA SCIL

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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