Laureth-5

Laureth-5 (CAS 3055-95-6), also marketed as Polyoxyethylene (5) Lauryl Ether and Pentaoxyethylene Monododecyl Ether, is a nonionic ethoxylated fatty alcohol surfactant used across personal care and industrial processing. It functions as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and cleaning agent in formulations where controlled hydrophilic-lipophilic balance is required. In personal care, it is used to emulsify and stabilize oil-in-water systems.

This material is found in creams, lotions, and cleansing products, enabling uniform texture and consistent delivery of active ingredients. Textile processors apply it as a scouring and wetting agent to remove oils. It effectively removes waxes and sizing agents from fiber substrates ahead of dyeing or finishing. In leather processing, it supports degreasing baths where effective fat liquor removal is needed without damaging hide structure.

Paper manufacturers use it as a dispersant and process aid in pulp treatment and coating formulations. This versatile surfactant is supplied as a liquid or paste depending on the ambient storage temperature. It is available in industrial and cosmetic-grade specifications. Cosmetic-grade material is commonly evaluated against established purity standards relevant to personal care procurement and manufacturing needs.

Bulk supply is standard in drums and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) for industrial volumes. The product maintains stability under standard storage conditions and is compatible with various anionic and cationic systems.