PEG-2 Lauryl Ether
Pharcos L 2
Also known as: Polyoxyethylene 2 Lauryl Ether | Macrogol Lauryl Ether 2
Pharcos L 2 is a fatty alcohol ethoxylate synthesized by reacting lauryl alcohol with precisely 2 moles of ethylene oxide. Operating at an extremely low HLB (~6.2), it is entirely insoluble in water. However, it is an exceptional 'chemical thickener' for anionic surfactant systems (like body washes) and a brilliant spreading agent for blooming bath oils that turn milky instantly upon contacting bathwater.
Quick Information
- Product Line:
- Personal Care
- Category:
- Emulsifiers
- Grade:
- Liquid
- CAS Number:
- 68439-50-9
Key Applications
- Viscosity Builder
- SLES Thickener
- Bath Oil Spreading Agent
- Lipophilic Emulsifier
How It Works
As a viscosity builder, Laureth-2 acts via 'micellar swelling'.
When added to a watery Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) solution, the highly lipophilic Laureth-2 molecules insert themselves forcefully into the hydrophobic core of the SLES micelles. The tiny 2-mole PEG heads provide just enough polarity to keep them anchored at the interface. This swelling forces the spherical micelles to deform into massive, highly entangled, worm-like (cylindrical) rod structures. The physical friction between these giant worm-micelles causes the bulk liquid to transform into a thick, luxurious, slow-flowing gel, often eliminating the need to add massive amounts of drying salt (NaCl) for thickness.
Technical Information
Common questions about PEG-2 Lauryl Ether
No. With an HLB of 6.2, it is far too hydrophobic to pull oils into water. You need a high HLB solubilizer like Laureth-23, Polysorbate 20, or HCO-40 for crystal-clear solubilization.
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