Isotrideceth-10 is the name in the INCI nomenclature for a branched derivative of isotridecyl alcohol (iso-C13). Chemically, it is a non-ionic surfactant that belongs to the group of ethoxylated fatty alcohols. On that account, its CAS number is 69011-36-5.
Under the conditions of atmospheric pressure and room temperature (approx. 20oC), Isotrideceth-10 is a liquid whose consistency resembles an oil or paste, since it starts to solidify already at around 18oC. At a temperature of 40oC, it is a clear liquid whose colour is assessed at max. 100 on the Hazen scale. Its solubility decreases as the temperature rises, hence it has a cloud point. It is a temperature value equal to 74-77oC, at which the substance starts to break, resulting in cloudiness. As compared to other ethoxylated fatty alcohols, Isotrideceth-10 has a relatively high cloud point and may be considered hydrophilic. It dissolves well in water and low aliphatic alcohols.
The stability and activity of the substance do not deteriorate in virtually any media. It is resistant to either oxidising or reducing media. The nature of media has no negative impact on the substance; you may use Isotrideceth-10 in either acidic or alkaline solutions, in hard water and in the presence of salt and organic solvents. Similarly to most ethoxylates, it features a good resistance to electrolytes, particularly alkaline ones. Due to its non-ionic nature, it is a suitable ingredient for all types of formulations. It will be effective in combination with other surfactants with non-ionic forms in their structure as well as cationic and anionic surfactants. Isotrideceth-10 is easily biodegradable.
Due to its very strong emulsifying and dispersing properties, Isotrideceth-10 can be a formulation ingredient of household or industrial cleaners. Within dedicated products, you may find Isotrideceth-10 in preparations for removing moss from the surface of concrete or cement and in cleaning agents for oil impurities on concrete and asphalt. Emulsification of oils is a useful property of the substance for the textile industry. This makes it possible to remove stains from woven/knitted fabrics. Other applications in the same branch of industry arise from the excellent wettability of Isotrideceth-10. This facilitates the processes of cotton bleaching and fibre dyeing as the capillarity of dye solutions is improved. Moreover, as it can emulsify oils, Isotrideceth-10 is an ingredient of softening compositions in textile processes. Global Textile Research Institutes, such as the Oeko Association, recognise the substance as compliant with the safety standards defined by Tex Standard and the ZDHC Programme. As a result of its compatibility with derivatives of silicone compounds, Isotrideceth-10 is used in body and hair washing formulations, in preparations that help prevent hair loss and in sunscreen cosmetics with a sun protection factor (SPF). Isotrideceth-10 acts as an element of an emulsification system during polymer production – in the emulsion polymerisation process. The resistance of a dispersion to agents such as electrolytes, hard water of solvents is even higher when the substance is used. This feature is utilised for example in the production of vinyl acetate co-polymer materials and VAE dispersions. Isotrideceth-10 could also serve as an intermediate product in the production of anionic surfactants such as phosphoric esters. As it is approved by global organisations, i.e. the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and BfR (Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung), Isotrideceth-10 may be used in the production of packaging and materials designed for food contact.
