Polyethylene glycol monopalmitate

Polyethylene glycol monopalmitate (CAS 9004-94-8), also known as glycol palmitate or 2-hydroxyethyl palmitate, is a nonionic ester used across personal care, cleaning, and industrial formulations. It functions as an emulsifier, wetting agent, and moisturizing component, enabling stable oil-in-water systems and improved surface interaction in various chemical processes.

In cosmetic formulations such as creams, lotions, and cleansers, it emulsifies oil phases while contributing mild skin-conditioning properties, reducing the need for additional humectants. Textile and leather processors use it to improve fiber lubrication and surface wetting during finishing treatments, ensuring uniform dye uptake and substrate penetration across materials.

In home care and industrial cleaning products, it aids in dispersing oils and soils into aqueous systems, improving detergent performance at lower active concentrations for efficiency. Food-grade applications include its use as an emulsifier in fat-based systems where stable dispersion of lipid components is required for consistent product texture and shelf stability.

Polyethylene glycol monopalmitate is typically supplied as a waxy solid, flakes, or paste depending on the ethylene oxide chain length of the specific grade being utilized. Technical and cosmetic grades are the most commonly available, with selection driven by HLB value requirements and application compatibility for specific industrial or commercial needs.