Cocamino Propyl Betaine (CAPB) Desmocol
Cocamino Propyl Betaine (CAPB) Desmocol is a mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil fatty acids and amino acids. It appears as a clear to slightly hazy liquid with a faint coconut-like odor. CAPB is widely used in personal care and household cleaning products for its excellent foaming, cleansing, and conditioning properties. Being a zwitterionic surfactant, it is compatible with anionic, cationic, and nonionic surfactants, enhancing the mildness and stability of formulations. The 30% active solution is easy to handle and incorporate in various cosmetic and detergent products. It functions as a foam booster, viscosity builder, and anti-irritant agent, making it a versatile ingredient in mild formulations.
Cocamino Propyl Betaine (CAPB) Desmocol Uses
Primary Uses
- Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Used extensively in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and liquid hand soaps for gentle cleansing and rich foam production.
- Acts as a foam stabilizer and enhancer improving sensory feel and lather quality in formulations.
- Provides skin and hair conditioning effects, reducing irritation potential from harsh surfactants.
- Commonly incorporated in baby care and sensitive skin products due to its mildness and low irritation profile.
- Used in bubble baths and bath gels to improve foam volume and texture.
- Household & Industrial Cleaning
- Utilized in liquid dishwashing detergents and surface cleaners for grease removal and foam generation.
- Functions as a defoamer and viscosity modifier in detergent formulations.
- Compatible with other surfactants to formulate mild yet effective cleaning products for delicate surfaces.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Textile & Leather Processing
- Applied as a wetting and foaming agent in textile scouring and leather processing due to its mild nature and biodegradability.
- Agricultural Formulations
- Occasionally used as a surfactant in pesticide and herbicide formulations to improve wetting and spreading on plant surfaces.
- Pharmaceutical & Dermatological
- Incorporated in topical pharmaceutical formulations as a cleansing agent where mildness is critical.
- Industrial Applications
Used in some industrial emulsions and metal cleaning formulations for its surfactant and foam control properties.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Cocamidopropyl Betaine
- Common/Trade Name: Cocamino Propyl Betaine 30% (CAPB) Desmocol
- CAS Number: 61789-40-0
- HS Code: 3402.19.00
- Molecular Formula: C19H38N2O3 (approximate, varies due to mixture)
- Synonyms:
- CAPB
- Cocamidopropyl betaine
- Amphoteric surfactant
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Viscous liquid (30% aqueous solution)
- Color & Odor: Light amber to yellowish; mild coconut-like odor
- pH (10% aqueous solution): 5.5 – 7.5
- Density: Approx. 1.03 g/cm³ at 25°C
- Solubility: Completely soluble in water; insoluble in oils and nonpolar solvents
- Foaming Ability: High foam volume with good stability
- Viscosity: Moderate; can increase viscosity in blends
- Stability: Stable in pH range 4–10; sensitive to strong acids and bases
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Generally considered safe; may cause mild eye irritation
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational limits established; handle with standard precautions
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; non-irritating to skin in recommended concentrations
- Reactivity: Stable under normal handling; avoid contact with strong oxidizers
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong acids and bases
- Container Type: Polyethylene or stainless steel drums and totes
- Shelf Life: 12–24 months if stored properly
- Special Handling: Avoid prolonged skin contact and eye exposure; use PPE as appropriate
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved for use in cosmetic and personal care formulations
- REACH Status: Registered and compliant with EU regulations
- Transportation: Not classified as hazardous for transport
- Waste Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local regulations; readily biodegradable
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low aquatic toxicity; biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Persistence: Readily biodegradable
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Rapidly biodegradable in wastewater treatment systems
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Safety Handling Precautions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Protective clothing (if prolonged exposure)
Handling Measures:
- Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin exposure
- Use adequate ventilation in confined areas
Storage Measures:
- Keep container sealed when not in use
- Store away from incompatible materials
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in handling areas
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Not expected to be hazardous; move to fresh air if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical attention if discomfort or symptoms occur
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable; may decompose at high temperatures releasing toxic fumes
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus if exposed to fumes
Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, and small amounts of ammonia