PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Pharcos HCO 40
Also known as: Polyoxyl 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil | Cremophor RH 40 Equivalent
Pharcos HCO 40 is by far the most universally specified solubilizer in modern chemistry. It effortlessly forces water-insoluble substances (essential oils, lipid-soluble vitamins, heavy fragrance compounds) into brilliantly clear aqueous solutions. Unlike standard CE 40, the base castor oil has been fully hydrogenated, rendering this product remarkably odor-free, colorless, and practically immune to oxidative rancidity.
Quick Information
- Product Line:
- Personal Care
- Category:
- Solubilizers
- Grade:
- Paste / Liquid
- CAS Number:
- 61788-85-0
Key Applications
- Essential Oil Solubilizer
- Fragrance Fixative
- Pesticide Concentrates
- Textile Scouring
How It Works
Operating at an HLB of approximately 14-16, HCO-40 functions via dense micellization.
Upon dissolving in water, it forms an armada of microscopic spherical micelles. The completely saturated (hydrogenated) hydroxystearate tails form a 'soft', accommodating lipophilic core that easily absorbs bulky, awkward fragrance molecules or pesticide actives. The massive PEG-40 chains extending into the water ensure these loaded micelles remain indefinitely suspended and optically invisible. Crucially, the lack of double bonds in the lipophilic tail means the surfactant will not yellow over time or degrade the delicate scent profile of the solubilized perfume.
Technical Information
Common questions about PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
It is a semi-synthetic derivative. The core is 100% natural Castor Oil, but it is chemically hydrogenated for stability and then reacted with synthetic ethylene oxide to make it water-soluble.
HCO 40 has a melting point near 30°C. In cool environments, it forms a thick white paste. It must be gently heated (never exceeding 70°C) until clearly melted before use, otherwise, the fragrance solubilization will fail.
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