Cocamide Diethanolamide
Pharcos CDEA
Also known as: Cocamide DEA | Coconut Oil Diethanolamine | Coco Diethanolamide
Pharcos CDEA (Cocamide DEA) is an alkanolamide non-ionic surfactant synthesized by reacting coconut oil fatty acids with diethanolamine. It is a critical functional ingredient in personal care cleansers (shampoos, body washes) and household detergents (dish liquids), primarily utilized to dramatically increase system viscosity and stabilize the lather against collapse in the presence of heavy soils or sebum.
Quick Information
- Product Line:
- Personal Care
- Category:
- Surfactants
- Grade:
- Viscous Liquid
- CAS Number:
- 68603-42-9
Key Applications
- Shampoos & Body Washes
- Viscosity Builder
- Foam Stabilizer
- Industrial Degreasers
How It Works
Cocamide DEA possesses a medium-length C12-C14 hydrophobic tail and a bulky, highly hydrogen-bonding diethanolamine head group.
Its primary mechanism is 'micellar stacking'. When added to a system driven by anionic primary surfactants (like Sodium Laureth Sulfate - SLES), the CDEA molecules insert themselves between the negatively charged sulfate headgroups. This reduces the electrostatic repulsion between the SLES molecules, allowing the rod-like micelles to grow dramatically in length and entangle with each other. This physical entanglement yields a massive increase in the liquid's dynamic viscosity.
Simultaneously, the CDEA fortifies the thin water films that comprise foam bubbles, drastically reducing the drainage rate of water from the bubble wall and creating a dense, 'creamy', long-lasting lather.
Technical Information
Common questions about Cocamide Diethanolamide
Anionic surfactants are excellent cleaners but tend to produce thin liquids and flash-foam that collapses quickly. CDEA synergizes perfectly with them, turning a watery soap into a thick, luxurious, slow-draining gel with creamy foam.
Yes, in certain regions (like California Proposition 65), there are strict limits on the presence of unreacted trace amounts of free diethanolamine (DEA) or the potential formation of nitrosamines. High-purity grades must be utilized, and formulation with heavy nitrosating agents must be avoided.
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