Heptaethylene glycol monododecyl ether

Heptaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, also known as Laureth-7, AEO 7, C12E7, and C12EO7, is a nonionic ethoxylated fatty alcohol surfactant with CAS number 3055-97-8. It is produced by ethoxylating dodecanol with seven moles of ethylene oxide, yielding a balanced hydrophilic-lipophilic structure suited to demanding formulation work.

In textile processing, it functions as an emulsifier and wetting agent, reducing interfacial tension to allow dye baths and finishing agents to penetrate fibres uniformly. In agricultural formulations, it stabilises emulsifiable concentrate pesticides by anchoring oil droplets within aqueous carrier systems. Personal care formulators use it to solubilise oils and fragrance components into water-based systems at low use levels.

Laureth-7 is supplied as a liquid and is registered under REACH. Procurement teams should confirm supplier compliance documentation, including Safety Data Sheets aligned with EU GHS requirements. Standard packaging formats include drums and intermediate bulk containers, with technical and cosmetic grades available depending on application requirements.