Polyethylene glycol lauryl ether

Polyethylene glycol lauryl ether (CAS 9002-92-0), commercially recognized as Laureth-23, is a nonionic ethoxylated fatty alcohol surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol. It functions as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and cleansing agent across personal care, household, and industrial formulations.

In cosmetics and skincare, it emulsifies oil-in-water systems in creams, lotions, and cleansers, helping stabilize finished formulations at varying pH ranges. Household and industrial detergent manufacturers use it to solubilize oils and soils from hard surfaces, fabrics, and equipment.

In textile processing, it acts as a scouring and wetting agent, improving dye penetration and fiber preparation during wet processing. Paper and leather industries apply it as a dispersing agent to control surface treatment uniformity and improve coating adhesion.

Polyethylene glycol lauryl ether is supplied as a waxy solid, paste, or liquid depending on the ethoxylation degree. Lower EO variants tend to be liquid while higher EO grades such as Laureth-23 are typically solid or semi-solid at room temperature.

Standard grades include cosmetic-grade and technical-grade, with cosmetic-grade material commonly meeting Ph.Eur. or USP specifications. Bulk supply is available in drums, IBCs, and bags depending on physical form.