Alcohols, C12-15, ethoxylated (CAS 68131-39-5) — Green N/A Note Fragrance Ingredient
Alcohols, C12-_15, ethoxylated
CAS 68131-39-5
What Is Alcohols, C12-_15, ethoxylated?
Alcohols, C12-15, ethoxylated are synthetic surfactants commonly found in cleaning products, shampoos, and industrial formulations. They help mix oil and water, creating stable foams and emulsions. While not typically used in fine fragrances, these compounds play crucial roles in personal care products where fragrance oils need to be evenly dispersed in water-based formulas.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Alcohols, C12-_15, ethoxylated Smell Like?
This ingredient is primarily functional rather than aromatic, with a very mild, clean alcohol-like odor that dissipates quickly. When present in formulations, it contributes little to the overall scent profile, serving mainly as a solubilizer for fragrance oils in aqueous systems.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Alcohols, C12-15, ethoxylated are synthetic surfactants produced by reacting linear C12-15 alcohols with ethylene oxide. The resulting compounds have both hydrophilic (ethylene oxide chains) and lipophilic (alkyl chains) properties, making them effective emulsifiers. The degree of ethoxylation varies depending on the intended application, typically ranging from 3 to 12 ethylene oxide units per molecule.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in water and organic solvents |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Care | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Primary surfactant/emulsifier |
| Household Cleaners | 5-15% | Up to 25% | Foaming agent |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use as a solubilizer for fragrance oils in water-based systems at 2-5% of the fragrance concentrate.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Not specifically assessed by RIFM as it’s primarily a functional ingredient rather than fragrance material.
Sustainability
As synthetic petrochemical-derived ingredients, these ethoxylated alcohols raise environmental concerns regarding biodegradability and aquatic toxicity. Some manufacturers offer bio-based alternatives using renewable feedstocks. Proper wastewater treatment is recommended due to potential persistence in aquatic environments.
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References
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. (2012). Safety Assessment of Alcohols, C12-15, Ethoxylated as Used in Cosmetics. CIR Report
- EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients List EPA SCIL
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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