Ethylhexylglycerin, a synthetic derivative of glycerin, shows up in countless formulations where both the safety and stability of products matter. With its chemical formula C11H24O3 and CAS number 70445-33-9, this compound features a molecular weight of 204.31 g/mol. By attaching an ethylhexyl group to glycerin's backbone, the substance shifts from a simple humectant to a multifunctional ingredient—stretching itself across personal care, household, and industrial applications. The raw material blends well in water, alcohol, and commonly used solvents, making it a favorite for cosmetic chemists seeking broad compatibility and reliable preservation.
Physically, Ethylhexylglycerin most often appears as a clear, colorless, viscous liquid, though it can also be encountered in solid forms like flakes, powder, pearls, or crystalline substances depending on production and storage methods. At room temperature, the density typically registers near 0.89 g/cm³. With a melting point around 48°C and a boiling point above 200°C, the material displays both stability and versatility in a wide range of product processing environments. Water solubility remains moderate, which helps Ethylhexylglycerin operate as an emollient and mild surfactant in aqueous or oil-based solutions alike. In experience, it does not emit strong odors, a trait that cosmetic labs appreciate, since scents interfere with fragrance design and mask the intended effect of finished goods.
Scrutinizing the structure, you see a glycerin molecule modified by an ethylhexyl side chain. This molecular tweak heightens the antimicrobial activity compared to traditional glycols or glycerin alone. In the lab, this means it supports preservation without depending on controversial parabens or strong phenoxyethanol loads. Specifications run tight; high-quality Ethylhexylglycerin shows very low water content (under 0.5%) and tests negative for hazardous impurities like diethylene glycol. The trade pays attention to product purity: both density and refractive index line up with standard tables, while color stays nearly transparent. For bulk buyers, material comes labeled with HS Code 2905399090, signaling its regulated status and confirming place in international chemical trade.
Looking at the molecular layout, C11H24O3 reveals its balance: a sturdy hydrocarbon backbone supporting polar hydroxyl groups. That trio of oxygen atoms arms the molecule with both hydrophilic traits (drawing moisture) and enough lipophilicity for blending into emollient cream bases or liquid detergents. It’s this molecular structure that gives Ethylhexylglycerin its pronounced stability against oxidation and heat, which explains the shelf longevity of products formulated with it.
Experience from manufacturing shows that Ethylhexylglycerin lines up in shelves as a fluid, but also debuts as consistent white powder, waxy flakes, solid pearls, or large crystals—each tailored for specific process needs. Liquids pour easily and blend directly into lotions. Flakes dissolve in oil at gentle heat, allowing for even distribution. Pearls and isolated crystals offer ease in measuring for batch work, which is helpful in factories that value reproducibility and resource conservation. These forms all respect the compound’s core density and avoid deterioration under normal storage conditions.
Density hovers around 0.89 g/cm³ at 20°C, a number that matters when measuring out quantities for batch mixing in both small-scale and industrial settings. Material handlers note the moderate solubility in water, which improves with higher temperatures and vigorous stirring, while ready miscibility with oils and ethanol brings versatility. This broad application comes alive in products as varied as deodorants, baby wipes, sunscreens, facial serums, and industrial cleaners, where performance, safety, and preservation capability stand at the front.
On the safety front, Ethylhexylglycerin presents itself as a low-toxicity chemical, which regulatory bodies like the EU and US FDA recognize as safe for topical and rinse-off use. In practice, users rarely report skin irritation or sensitization, supported by dermatological studies. Still, the raw material must be handled with routine chemical care: avoid ingesting, keep clear from eyes, and use gloves where direct skin contact occurs in manufacturing spaces. Ethylhexylglycerin does not show up as a hazardous chemical in global inventories, but high purity and traceability must remain priorities to block contamination or by-product development during synthesis. Its low ecological impact and rapid biodegradability make it preferable to older, more persistent preservatives.
Working in product development, I’ve learned that Ethylhexylglycerin rose to prominence because it solves real-world problems—chief among them the demand for safer, non-irritating preservatives as consumers turn away from parabens and formaldehyde donors. Chemists appreciate the synergy with phenoxyethanol, where lower concentrations of both multiply preservation effects without tightening regulatory scrutiny. For countries with strict cosmetic regulations, relying on Ethylhexylglycerin can simplify the paperwork and comply with clean-label promises. The material also reduces complexity in formulas: besides boosting shelf life, it improves skin feel and stops tackiness, which adds tangible value for customers.
Although Ethylhexylglycerin fits well in most modern formulas, it does have limits. For example, in very low concentrations it alone cannot stop microbial growth. Solutions involve pairing it with mild co-preservatives or adjusting the system’s pH to a slightly acidic range, maximizing efficacy without moving toward harsher chemicals. Manufacturers also keep an eye on raw material sources to block supply chain disruptions and guarantee consistent performance across global production sites. As the demand for mild, effective preservatives grows, supporting transparency in sourcing, purity testing, and clear hazard communication stands as the best way to avoid setbacks both in regulatory compliance and customer trust.
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