PEG-30 Oleyl Ether
Pharcos OL
Also known as: Polyoxyethylene 30 Oleyl Ether | Macrogol Oleyl Ether 30
Pharcos OL is synthesized by ethoxylating oleyl alcohol with 30 moles of ethylene oxide. While it shares the high solubilizing power (HLB ~16.6) of other 30-mole ethoxylates, it is structurally distinct. The central C18 carbon chain contains a cis-double bond (unsaturation), which forces a 'kink' into the molecular tail. This molecular geometry prevents the molecules from packing tightly together, giving Oleth-30 unique flowing and rheological properties, making it famous for use in ringing-clear hair styling gels.
Quick Information
- Product Line:
- Personal Care
- Category:
- Solubilizers
- Grade:
- Solid / Waxy
- CAS Number:
- 9004-98-2
Key Applications
- Clear Styling Gels
- Microemulsion Solubilizer
- Essential Oil Dispersant
- Agricultural Formulations
How It Works
The 'kinked' oleyl tail is the core driver of Oleth-30's unique properties.
When formulated into high-water systems with polymeric thickeners (like Carbomers), standard saturated solubilizers (like Ceteareth-30) often form rigorous crystalline networks that can make gels cloudy or overly stiff. The kink in the Oleth-30 chain creates steric hindrance, preventing dense crystallization. This allows it to hold massive amounts of fragrance or botanical oils completely in solution while maintaining total, glass-like clarity in the final hair gel. Furthermore, it imparts a soft, 'cushiony' feel when rubbed between the hands, rather than a brittle or watery texture.
Technical Information
Common questions about PEG-30 Oleyl Ether
This is completely natural. The double bond in the oleic chain makes it slightly more susceptible to mild oxidation during manufacturing than fully saturated chains. The faint color does not impact the extreme clarity of the final formulated gel.
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