Ceteareth 20 Ginonic
Ceteareth 20 Ginonic CSA 20 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from the ethoxylation of cetearyl alcohol, incorporating approximately 20 ethylene oxide units per molecule. It appears as a white to off-white waxy solid or viscous liquid, depending on temperature and formulation. This emulsifier is widely used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations for its excellent ability to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, improve texture, and enhance the sensory properties of finished products. Its high hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) makes it especially effective in forming stable emulsions and solubilizing lipophilic ingredients in aqueous phases. Ceteareth 20 is valued for its mildness, broad compatibility, and multifunctional performance.
Ceteareth 20 Ginonic (CSA 20)
Primary UsesÂ
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Emulsifier and solubilizer in creams, lotions, milks, and body butters for stable oil-in-water emulsions.
- Enhances texture, spreadability, and skin feel of moisturizers, sunscreens, cleansers, and makeup products.
- Mild surfactant component in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and intimate hygiene products.
- Solubilizes essential oils, fragrances, and lipophilic actives in aqueous-based formulations.
- Thickener and stabilizer in personal lubricants and deodorants.
- Pharmaceuticals
- Emulsifying agent in topical creams, ointments, gels, and transdermal delivery systems.
- Improves solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs.
- Enhances formulation stability and consistency in pharmaceutical emulsions.
- Household & Industrial Products
- Nonionic emulsifier in liquid detergents, surface cleaners, and polishes.
- Used in formulations requiring stable emulsions, such as lubricants, metalworking fluids, and coatings.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Food Industry
- Used in non-food-contact applications related to food packaging coatings and food-grade cosmetics.
- Agricultural Chemicals
- Surfactant/emulsifier in pesticide and herbicide formulations to improve dispersion and adhesion of actives.
- Textile & Leather
- Emulsifier in textile softeners, finishing agents, and leather treatment products to improve softness and water resistance.
- Paints & Coatings
- Stabilizer and emulsifier in water-based paints, inks, and coatings for improved product uniformity and shelf life.
- Oil & Gas
- Emulsifier in drilling fluids and enhanced oil recovery formulations to stabilize emulsions and improve performance.
- Personal Hygiene Products
- Component in wet wipes, cleansing cloths, and foaming products for uniform active ingredient distribution and mild cleansing action.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Polyoxyethylene (20) cetyl/stearyl ether
- Common/Trade Name: Ceteareth 20, Ginonic CSA 20
- CAS Number: 68439-49-6
- HS Code: 3402.19.00
- Molecular Formula: Variable polymeric mixture based on C16–C18 fatty alcohol and ~20 ethylene oxide units
- Synonyms:
- PEG-20 Cetearyl Ether
- Ethoxylated cetearyl alcohol
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Waxy solid or viscous liquid (temperature dependent)
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; mild or neutral odor
- Melting Point: 45–55°C (varies with grade and processing)
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
- Density: ~0.98–1.02 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Solubility:
- Soluble in water, alcohols, and glycols
- Insoluble in hydrocarbons and some oils
- Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB): Approximately 15.7 (highly hydrophilic)
- Stability: Stable under normal storage; sensitive to strong acids or bases which may hydrolyze the ether linkages
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous under normal use conditions
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits; standard PPE recommended
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally considered safe in cosmetic and pharmaceutical concentrations
- Irritation Potential: Generally non-irritating; rare cases of mild skin irritation reported with prolonged exposure
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Container Type: Typically supplied in sealed drums, pails, or bulk containers
- Shelf Life: 24–36 months when stored properly
- Special Handling: Avoid dust formation and prolonged skin contact; use PPE when handling large volumes
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Cosmetic Regulatory Status: Compliant with regulations globally (EU, FDA, etc.) for use in cosmetics and personal care products
- REACH Status: Registered under REACH for use in the European market
- Transportation: Not regulated as a hazardous material for transport
- Waste Disposal: Dispose of according to local, regional, and national environmental regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact; biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Persistence: Moderate environmental persistence; biodegrades in wastewater treatment systems
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate in organisms
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: No known carcinogenic or mutagenic effects
- Biodegradability: Classified as readily biodegradable
Safety Handling Precautions
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Protective gloves and safety goggles when handling large quantities
- Protective clothing recommended to avoid prolonged skin exposure
- Handling Measures:
- Avoid inhaling dust or vapors; ensure adequate ventilation
- Avoid contact with strong acids or bases to prevent degradation
- Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly closed and protected from moisture
- Use first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory management
- Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling the product
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if respiratory discomfort occurs; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation or burns develop
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; consult a physician if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; seek medical attention if large amounts are ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible at elevated temperatures
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical powder, or COâ‚‚ to extinguish fire
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
- Decomposition Products: May emit carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic fumes during combustion

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