Cocamide Monoethanolamide
Pharcos CMEA
Also known as: Cocamide MEA | Coconut Monoethanolamide | Coco MEA
Pharcos CMEA (Cocamide MEA) is the monoethanolamide analog to CDEA, derived from coconut fatty acid. Crucially, because it lacks the second ethyl alcohol branch found in DEA, it exists as a hard, waxy solid at room temperature rather than a liquid. This distinct physical state makes it highly desirable for manufacturing solid detergent bars, powdered bubble baths, and opaque/pearlescent liquid body washes where structural viscosity and dense foam are required.
Quick Information
- Product Line:
- Personal Care
- Category:
- Surfactants
- Grade:
- Flakes / Solid
- CAS Number:
- 68140-00-1
Key Applications
- Solid Syndet Bars
- Liquid Soaps
- Pearlizing Agent
- Foam Stabilizer
How It Works
Like its DEA counterpart, Cocamide MEA functions by inserting itself into the negatively charged micelle structures of primary anionic surfactants, reducing electrostatic repulsion and promoting cylindrical cell growth (viscosity building).
Additionally, because the MEA molecule is less sterically hindered and highly crystalline, if the liquid formulation is cooled without sufficient solubilizers, the CMEA will precipitate out into microscopic, reflective platelet crystals. This controlled precipitation causes an intentional, attractive opaque or pearlescent visual effect in liquid soaps and shampoos.
Technical Information
Common questions about Cocamide Monoethanolamide
Choose CMEA when formulating solid products (bars/powders), or when an opaque, pearlescent appearance is desired in a liquid. Choose CDEA when formulating crystal-clear liquid systems, as CDEA is liquid and significantly easier to keep perfectly dissolved without clouding.
Generally, no. Because it utilizes monoethanolamine rather than diethanolamine, the risk of forming restricted nitrosamines is vastly lower, making it a preferred, safer alternative in modern personal care formulations.
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