Amine oxides, C12-18-alkyldimethyl (CAS 68955-55-5) — Green Functional (non-fragrance) Note Fragrance Ingredient
Amine oxides, C12-_18-_alkyldimethyl
CAS 68955-55-5
What Is Amine oxides, C12-_18-_alkyldimethyl?
Amine oxides are synthetic surfactants commonly found in household cleaning products like detergents and fabric softeners. They help lift dirt and grease while creating rich foams. While not primarily used for fragrance, they contribute to the overall sensory experience of cleaning products by enhancing texture and stability.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Amine oxides, C12-_18-_alkyldimethyl Smell Like?
Amine oxides typically have a faint, soapy odor with mild fatty undertones. Their scent profile is generally neutral with a clean, slightly waxy character. In formulations, they often serve more as functional ingredients rather than fragrance components, though they can subtly influence the overall scent by modifying texture and delivery of other aromatic compounds.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
C12-18-alkyldimethyl amine oxides belong to a class of surfactants derived from tertiary amines through oxidation. These compounds feature a polar amine oxide head group attached to long alkyl chains (C12-C18), which determines their amphiphilic properties. They’re synthesized by reacting fatty amines with hydrogen peroxide, creating molecules that excel at reducing surface tension in aqueous solutions.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in water and polar solvents |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Products | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Foam booster and viscosity modifier |
| Personal Care | 0.5-3% | Up to 5% | Mild surfactant in shampoos |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use as a foam stabilizer in cleansing formulations where mildness is required.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Gentler amphoteric surfactant with better foam characteristics for sensitive skin formulations.
More cost-effective anionic surfactant when stronger cleaning power is needed.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA – primarily used as functional ingredient rather than fragrance component.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
Not specifically evaluated by RIFM as it’s primarily a surfactant rather than fragrance material.
Sustainability
As synthetic surfactants, amine oxides are petroleum-derived but are typically biodegradable. Manufacturers are developing greener production methods including bio-based alkyl chains. Their high efficiency at low concentrations helps reduce environmental load compared to less effective surfactants.
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References
- PubChem Compound Summary for Amine oxides, C12-18-alkyldimethyl PubChem
- Surfactant Science Series (2005). Amphoteric Surfactants. CRC Press.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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