Ethoxylated C9-11 Alcohol with 6 EO Units

# Ethoxylated C9-11 Alcohol with 6 EO Units: Properties and Applications

## Introduction to C9-11 Pareth 6

C9-11 Pareth 6, also known as Ethoxylated C9-11 Alcohol with 6 EO Units, is a nonionic surfactant widely used in various industrial and consumer applications. This chemical compound is created through the ethoxylation of C9-11 fatty alcohols with approximately 6 ethylene oxide (EO) units.

## Chemical Structure and Properties

The molecular structure of C9-11 Pareth 6 consists of a hydrocarbon chain (C9-11) with an ethoxylate chain containing an average of 6 ethylene oxide units. This structure gives the compound its amphiphilic properties, making it an effective surfactant.

Key properties include:

– Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) value typically between 11-13

– Good wetting and emulsifying capabilities

– Low foam characteristics

– Excellent compatibility with other surfactants

– Biodegradable under appropriate conditions

## Industrial Applications

### Cleaning Products

C9-11 Pareth 6 is extensively used in industrial and institutional cleaning formulations due to its excellent degreasing properties and low foam profile. It’s particularly effective in:

– Hard surface cleaners

– Metal cleaning formulations

– CIP (Clean-in-Place) systems

– Textile processing aids

### Personal Care Formulations

In cosmetic and personal care products, this surfactant serves as:

– Mild cleansing agent in shampoos and body washes

– Emulsifier in lotions and creams

– Solubilizer for fragrances and essential oils

## Technical Advantages

Compared to other ethoxylated alcohols, C9-11 Pareth 6 offers several technical benefits:

– Balanced hydrophilic/lipophilic character

– Better performance in hard water conditions

– Lower irritation potential than higher EO variants

– Improved environmental profile compared to some alternatives

## Safety and Handling

While generally considered safe for industrial use, proper handling procedures should be followed:

– Use appropriate personal protective equipment

– Avoid prolonged skin contact

– Store in well-ventilated areas away from oxidizers

– Follow local regulations for disposal

## Environmental Considerations

C9-11 Pareth 6 demonstrates favorable environmental characteristics:

– Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions

– Low bioaccumulation potential

– Moderate aquatic toxicity that decreases with dilution

## Market Availability

This surfactant is available from multiple global suppliers in various forms:

– Clear liquid at room temperature

– Different purity grades for specific applications

– Often blended with other surfactants for optimized performance

## Future Outlook

With increasing demand for effective yet environmentally responsible surfactants, C9-11 Pareth 6 is well-positioned to maintain its market share. Ongoing research focuses on optimizing its performance in green formulations and exploring new application areas.