C_9-11 Pareth-3
[CAS# 68439-46-3]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Ether
• Name: C_9-11 Pareth-3
• Synonyms: Alcohols, C9-11, ethoxylated; 1-Ethoxynonane
• Molecular Formula: C₁₁H₂₄O
• Molecular Weight: 172.31
• CAS Registry Number: 68439-46-3
• EC Number: 614-482-0
• SMILES: CCCCCCCCCOCC

Properties

• Density: 0.8±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*
• Index of Refraction: 1.420, Calc.^*
• Boiling Point: 206.5±3.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*
• Flash Point: 68.1±5.7 °C, Calc.^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07;GHS09 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302-H318-H400
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P270-P273-P280-P301+P317-P305+P354+P338-P317-P330-P391-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	4	H412

Discovery and Applications

C9-11 Pareth-3 is a nonionic surfactant widely used in the formulation of cleaning products, personal care items, and industrial applications. This compound is derived from the ethoxylation of a fatty alcohol, typically a mixture of C9 to C11 alcohols, with three moles of ethylene oxide. The result is a surfactant with excellent emulsifying and wetting properties, making it valuable in various industries.

The discovery of C9-11 Pareth-3, like other ethoxylated alcohols, arose from the need for effective surfactants that could be synthesized from renewable resources. Fatty alcohols are often derived from natural oils and fats, which makes ethoxylated derivatives more environmentally friendly compared to surfactants synthesized from petrochemicals. Ethoxylation, the process of adding ethylene oxide to the alcohol, enhances the compound’s ability to dissolve in water while retaining its hydrophobic nature, making it an ideal agent for lowering surface tension and improving the spread of liquids.

In household cleaning products, C9-11 Pareth-3 is commonly used in detergents and dishwashing liquids. Its nonionic nature makes it compatible with other surfactants and additives, while its emulsifying properties allow it to break down oils and grease effectively. The presence of three ethylene oxide units provides the right balance between water solubility and oil compatibility, allowing the surfactant to perform well even in hard water conditions.

C9-11 Pareth-3 is also widely used in personal care formulations, including shampoos, conditioners, and skin cleansers. In these applications, it functions as a mild surfactant that can cleanse without stripping the skin or hair of natural oils. Its nonionic structure is less likely to cause irritation compared to ionic surfactants, making it suitable for use in products intended for sensitive skin. Additionally, its emulsifying properties make it an effective agent for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions, which is a common requirement in cosmetic formulations.

Beyond its use in consumer products, C9-11 Pareth-3 has industrial applications, particularly in the manufacturing of paints, coatings, and agrochemicals. Its ability to emulsify and stabilize mixtures allows it to be used in formulations where uniform dispersion of ingredients is essential for product performance.

Overall, the versatility and effectiveness of C9-11 Pareth-3 make it a valuable surfactant in a wide range of products, from household cleaners to personal care and industrial applications.

References

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