Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), a-tridecyl-w-hydroxy-, branched (CAS 69011-36-5) — Citrus Non-volatile Note Fragrance Ingredient

Citrus · Floral

Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), a-tridecyl-w-hydroxy-, branched

CAS 69011-36-5

Origin
synthetic
Note
Non-volatile
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), a-tridecyl-w-hydroxy-, branched?

This synthetic polymer is commonly used as a surfactant and emulsifier in personal care products. You’ll find it in shampoos, conditioners, and liquid soaps where it helps blend oil and water components. While not a fragrance ingredient itself, it plays a crucial role in stabilizing scent compositions and ensuring even distribution of aromatic compounds in cosmetic formulations.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Widely used in cosmetics
Avoid direct inhalation of powder form
CAS
69011-36-5
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Citrus · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), a-tridecyl-w-hydroxy-, branched Smell Like?

As a non-volatile polymer, this material has no detectable odor of its own. Its primary function is structural rather than aromatic, serving as an invisible scaffold that helps maintain the integrity of fragrance compositions without contributing to the scent profile.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

This polyethylene glycol derivative is classified as a nonionic surfactant. The ‘a-tridecyl-w-hydroxy-‘ designation indicates a branched C13 alkyl chain terminated by a hydroxyl group. Such polymers are typically synthesized through base-catalyzed ethoxylation reactions of fatty alcohols. The branching pattern affects the surfactant’s cloud point and solubility characteristics.

Physical & Chemical Properties

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

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Non-volatile
Volatility
None
Blending
Structural
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Shampoos1-5%0.5-10%Primary surfactant
Conditioners0.5-3%0.1-5%Emulsifier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use as a base for creating stable microemulsions of fragrance oils.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil CAS 61788-85-0

When more natural derivation is preferred for marketing purposes.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

Not restricted by IFRA as it is not a fragrance material.

RIFM Assessment

Not assessed by RIFM as it is not a direct fragrance ingredient.

Sustainability

As a petrochemical derivative, its environmental impact comes from fossil fuel extraction. However, its high efficiency at low usage levels partially offsets this concern. Biodegradability studies show moderate environmental persistence.

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References

  1. PubChem Compound Summary for Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), a-tridecyl-w-hydroxy-, branched PubChem

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

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