CAS#: 68131-39-5
CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) numbers are unique identifiers assigned to every chemical substance, ensuring accurate identification across the industry.
What is it?
C12-15 Ethoxylated Alcohol is a nonionic surfactant derived from natural fatty alcohols, typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. The "C12-15" designation refers to the carbon chain length of the alcohol (12 to 15 carbons), while "ethoxylated" means the alcohol has been treated with ethylene oxide to enhance its cleaning properties. This ingredient is valued for its effectiveness, low toxicity, and biodegradability.
What does it do?
C12-15 Ethoxylated Alcohol functions as a primary surfactant by dramatically reducing the surface tension of water, allowing the detergent to penetrate deeply into fabric fibers. This ingredient excels at several key functions: it enhances foam stability for better cleaning action, improves wetting (allowing water to spread evenly across fabrics), increases the solubility of dirt and oils, and provides exceptional degreasing properties. It is particularly effective at removing oily stains and greasy residues while being gentle enough for delicate fabrics like silk and wool.
How is it made?
The production process begins with natural fatty alcohols derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. These alcohols (with carbon chain lengths of 12-15) undergo a chemical reaction called ethoxylation, where they are treated with ethylene oxide under controlled conditions. This process adds ethylene oxide units to the alcohol molecules, creating a surfactant that is both water-soluble and effective at removing oils and dirt. The degree of ethoxylation is carefully controlled to optimize cleaning performance while maintaining biodegradability.
Safety & Certifications
C12-15 Ethoxylated Alcohol meets the stringent safety standards required for EPA Safer Choice certification:
- EPA Safer Choice Approved: Pre-approved ingredient meeting EPA's criteria for human health and environmental safety
- Plant-Derived Base: Made from renewable coconut or palm kernel oil fatty alcohols
- Biodegradable: Breaks down readily in the environment through natural processes
- Low Toxicity: Nonionic surfactants are generally gentler than ionic alternatives
- Effective at Low Concentrations: Requires smaller amounts for effective cleaning
- Safe for Delicate Fabrics: Gentle enough for silk, wool, and other sensitive materials
- EWG Verified: Meets Environmental Working Group's strictest standards for health and transparency
All Heritage Park detergents containing this ingredient are both EPA Safer Choice Certified and EWG VERIFIED®, providing independent, third-party validation of safety.
What product is this ingredient in?
All-Purpose Detergents:
- Heritage Park All-Purpose Laundry Detergent - Fragrance-Free
- Heritage Park All-Purpose Laundry Detergent - Shore Breeze
- Heritage Park All-Purpose Laundry Detergent - Lavender Mist
- Heritage Park All-Purpose Laundry Detergent - Spring Magnolia