Ceteareth-20
Pharcos C 20
Also known as: PEG-20 Cetostearyl Ether | Polyoxyethylene 20 Cetostearyl Ether
Pharcos C 20 is a remarkably versatile non-ionic surfactant. While it is deeply established in the cosmetics industry for stabilizing oil-in-water (O/W) creams and hair developers, its technical grade acts as a critical building block in structural industries. It is heavily utilized as a primary emulsifier in paint and adhesive manufacturing (emulsion polymerization) and acts as an aggressive dye leveler and wetting agent in leather and textile processing.
Quick Information
- Product Line:
- Personal Care
- Category:
- Emulsifiers
- Grade:
- Techincal / Cosmetic
- CAS Number:
- 68439-49-6
Key Applications
- Cosmetic Emulsions
- Dye Leveling
- Emulsion Polymerization
- Industrial Cleaners
How It Works
Ethoxylation of cetostearyl alcohol (C16-C18 blend) with 20 moles of EO yields an HLB of 15.5.
In cosmetic emulsions, Ceteareth-20 forms ordered lamellar alpha-crystalline networks when paired with fatty alcohols. However, in industrial emulsion polymerization (such as manufacturing acrylic or vinyl acetate latexes for paints/adhesives), it functions via distinct steric stabilization. The fatty tail anchors tightly into the growing polymer latex particle, while the PEG chain extends into the water. This massive steric barrier physically prevents the sticky polymer particles from coagulating during the violent shear and heat of the polymerization reaction.
Technical Information
Common questions about Ceteareth-20
Yes. The molecular chemistry is identical. Cosmetic grades undergo slightly tighter odor and color specifications, while technical grades focus purely on high-volume surfactant activity.
Yes, Ceteareth-20 is highly effective at emulsifying high-viscosity silicone oils (like Dimethicone) into stable white emulsions used for car polishes and heavy-duty shine protectants.
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