Polyethylene glycol monostearyl ether

Polyethylene glycol monostearyl ether (CAS 9005-00-9), commonly known as Steareth in its numbered series, is a nonionic ethoxylated fatty alcohol.

Where is Polyethylene glycol monostearyl ether used?

• Cosmetic creams and lotions: oil-in-water emulsifier and co-emulsifier
• Liquid detergents and hard-surface cleaners: lower-ethoxylation grades improve substrate wetting and soil release
• Textile processing: fiber lubricant and wetting agent during dyeing and finishing
• Paper and leather treatment: softening and conditioning agent that improves surface feel and workability
• The degree of ethoxylation determines HLB value, making grade selection critical for emulsion stability and wetting performance.

Good to know: Steareth-2 through Steareth-100 represent the commercially traded range. Purity and ethoxylation distribution are typically confirmed by hydroxyl value and GC analysis per buyer specification.

Commercial specifications

• Standard grades available to cosmetic and industrial specifications