Ceteareth-50
Pharcos C 50
Also known as: PEG-50 Cetostearyl Ether | Polyoxyethylene 50 Cetostearyl Ether
Pharcos C 50 is an intensely hydrophilic polymeric surfactant (HLB > 17.5). Supplying unparalleled structural integrity, it is almost exclusively utilized in the heavy detergent industry for manufacturing extruded solid toilet rim blocks and solid-state industrial degreasers. It acts concurrently as a physical binder, a controlled-release matrix, and a colorant dispersant.
Quick Information
- Product Line:
- Personal Care
- Category:
- Emulsifiers
- Grade:
- Flakes / Powder
- CAS Number:
- 68439-49-6
Key Applications
- Toilet Rim Blocks
- Solid Detergent Binder
- Colorant Dispersion
How It Works
At 50 moles of ethylene oxide, the PEG chain vastly dominates the molecule. This makes Ceteareth-50 exceptionally hard at room temperature (melting point > 50°C), yet entirely soluble in water once wetted.
In extruded toilet blocks, C-50 binds the raw powdered surfactants (like LABSA or SLS) together into a cohesive, non-crumbling brick. When water flushes over the block, the C-50 hydrates extremely slowly due to its massive molecular size. This agonizingly slow dissolution rate perfectly meters the release of the active cleaning agents and the blue/green dyes into the toilet bowl over exactly 300 to 400 flushes, preventing the block from simply washing away on day one.
Technical Information
Common questions about Ceteareth-50
Rarely. While safe, its massive molecular size offers very poor emulsification for standard oils and produces a very stiff, draggy feel on the skin. It is reserved for solid-state industrial and detergent applications.
Due to its high melting point and crystallinity, it is typically spray-chilled or milled into fine flakes or powders to ensure it mixes homogenously with other dry ingredients during the detergent extrusion process.
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