Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane, monooctadecyl ether (CAS 9038-43-1) — Citrus Non-volatile Note Fragrance Ingredient
Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane, monooctadecyl ether
CAS 9038-43-1
What Is Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane, monooctadecyl ether?
This synthetic polymer is primarily used in industrial applications and specialty formulations rather than consumer perfumery. It functions as a surfactant and emulsifier in products requiring stable oil-water mixtures. While not directly encountered in daily fragrance products, it plays a behind-the-scenes role in stabilizing certain cosmetic and household formulations where fragrance oils need to be evenly dispersed.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane, monooctadecyl ether Smell Like?
This material is essentially odorless in pure form, functioning primarily as a technical ingredient rather than a fragrant component. Its polymer structure lacks volatile aromatic characteristics typically associated with perfumery materials. In formulations, it may carry trace odors from manufacturing processes, but these are negligible compared to active fragrance ingredients.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
This polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative is synthesized through the polymerization of ethylene oxide and subsequent etherification with octadecanol. The resulting amphiphilic polymer contains both hydrophilic ethylene oxide units and hydrophobic alkyl chains. The molecular weight distribution depends on polymerization conditions, typically producing materials with varying degrees of ethoxylation. The octadecyl ether terminus provides surface-active properties.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Waxy solid to viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in water and organic solvents |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emulsion Stabilizer | 0.5-3% | Up to 5% | For oil-phase incorporation |
| Surfactant Blends | 1-10% | Up to 15% | In cleansing systems |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use as a co-emulsifier with primary surfactants for improved fragrance oil dispersion.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Nonionic surfactant with similar emulsifying properties but different solubility profile.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA – primarily functions as formulation aid rather than fragrance ingredient.
RIFM Assessment
Not evaluated by RIFM as it is not considered a direct fragrance material.
Sustainability
As a petrochemical-derived material, its environmental impact depends on manufacturing processes. While not biodegradable, it is used at low levels in formulations. Some manufacturers offer bio-based ethylene oxide alternatives to reduce fossil fuel dependence in production.
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References
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR). (2018). Safety Assessment of PEG Derivatives.
- EPA Substance Registry Services. (2023). Chemical Data Access Tool.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 9038-43-1Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.
