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Ethoxylated C9-11 Alcohol with 6 EO Units

# Ethoxylated C9-11 Alcohol with 6 EO Units: A Versatile Surfactant

## Introduction to C9-11 Pareth 6

C9-11 Pareth 6, also known as ethoxylated C9-11 alcohol with 6 ethylene oxide (EO) units, is a nonionic surfactant widely used in various industrial and consumer applications. This chemical compound belongs to the family of alcohol ethoxylates, which are known for their excellent surface-active properties.

## Chemical Structure and Properties

The molecular structure of C9-11 Pareth 6 consists of a C9-11 alcohol chain (containing 9 to 11 carbon atoms) that has been ethoxylated with an average of 6 ethylene oxide units. This structure gives the compound its amphiphilic nature:

– Hydrophobic tail: C9-11 alkyl chain
– Hydrophilic head: Polyethylene oxide chain (6 EO units)

Key physical properties include:

– Appearance: Clear to slightly hazy liquid
– Solubility: Soluble in water and most organic solvents
– HLB value: Approximately 12-13 (moderate hydrophilicity)
– Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions

## Manufacturing Process

The production of C9-11 Pareth 6 involves the ethoxylation of C9-11 fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide in the presence of a catalyst. The reaction typically occurs under controlled temperature and pressure conditions to ensure the desired degree of ethoxylation (6 EO units in this case).

## Applications in Various Industries

### 1. Cleaning Products

C9-11 Pareth 6 is extensively used in household and industrial cleaning formulations due to its excellent wetting, emulsifying, and detergent properties. Common applications include:

– Dishwashing liquids
– Laundry detergents
– Hard surface cleaners
– Industrial degreasers

### 2. Personal Care Products

In cosmetics and personal care formulations, this surfactant serves as a mild cleansing agent and emulsifier:

– Shampoos and body washes
– Facial cleansers
– Shaving products
– Makeup removers

### 3. Industrial Applications

The compound finds use in various industrial processes:

– Textile processing
– Metal working fluids
– Agricultural formulations
– Paint and coatings

## Advantages of C9-11 Pareth 6

Compared to other surfactants, C9-11 Pareth 6 offers several benefits:

– Excellent compatibility with other formulation ingredients
– Good foam characteristics (moderate foam generation)
– Low irritation potential compared to higher EO content surfactants
– Effective performance across a wide pH range
– Cost-effective performance in many applications

## Safety and Environmental Considerations

While generally considered safe for use in various applications, proper handling procedures should be followed:

– Eye protection recommended during handling
– Avoid prolonged skin contact
– Store in well-ventilated areas away from heat sources
– Biodegradation studies show >60% degradation within 28 days (OECD 301 standards)

## Regulatory Status

C9-11 Pareth 6 is approved for use in various regions with the following regulatory status:

– Europe: Listed in the European Inventory of Existing Commercial Chemical Substances (EINECS)
– United States: Included in the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) inventory
– Asia: Approved in most major markets with varying concentration limits

## Future Outlook

The demand for C9-11 Pareth 6 is expected to remain stable, with potential growth in emerging markets. Current research focuses on:

– Developing more sustainable production methods
– Improving biodegradation profiles
– Enhancing performance at lower concentrations
– Exploring new application areas in green chemistry

As formulators continue to seek versatile, cost-effective surfactants with balanced properties, C9-11 Pareth 6 is likely to maintain its position as an important ingredient in many industrial and consumer products.