Diethylene glycol monooctadecyl ether

Diethylene glycol monooctadecyl ether, also known as Steareth-2, C18E2, or by trade names Brij S2 and BRIJ S2-SO-SG, is a short-chain ethoxylated fatty alcohol with the molecular formula C22H46O3 (CAS 16057-43-5). It carries no assigned E-code and belongs to the nonionic surfactant class.

In personal care formulations, Steareth-2 functions as a co-emulsifier, stabilising water-in-oil systems by reducing interfacial tension at low HLB values. In textile and coating applications, it acts as a dispersing agent and carrier, improving pigment wetting and facilitating uniform distribution of active components across substrates.

Steareth-2 is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU and should be sourced with a compliant Safety Data Sheet. It is available in technical and cosmetic grades, with cosmetic-grade material meeting relevant INCI standards. Typical packaging includes drums and IBCs for bulk procurement.