Isotrideceth-is the INCI name for a non-ionic surfactant that belongs to the group of ethoxylated fatty alcohols. This group of chemical compounds is famous for numerous surfactants of diversified applications. For Isotrideceth-20, the CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number, allowing for the global identification of the substance, is 69011-36-5. This number is assigned to ethoxylated products based on the structure of isotridecyl alcohol (iso-C13). Under normal conditions of room temperature, it is a solid with a white or slightly yellowish colour.
Isotrideceth-20 is a non-ionic surfactant used in the polymer production process. Emulsion polymerisation, which is one of the most common methods used in the production of polymers, latexes and rubbers, e.g. styrene-butadiene rubbers, is conducted in the water phase. On that account, not only monomers but also excipients are required, the latter including catalysts, pH regulators and emulsifiers. Isotrideceth-20 is an excellent emulsifier as part of an emulsification system, which also stabilises the particles of the dispersion. Due to a high degree of ethoxylation, the use of this chemical compound in emulsion polymerisation boosts the resistance of the dispersion to electrolytes and organic solvents. As it is non-ionic, Isotrideceth-20 is compatible with both similar emulsifiers and popular anionic emulsifiers. The substance works best in formulations that contain anionic sulfate products or emulsifiers based on phosphoric esters. During the process of producing a polymer coating, Isotrideceth-20 improves its mechanical property and raises its resistance. It can be used as an alternative for ethoxylated nonyl phenols. Non-ionic surfactants are often used in latex environments, because they modify surface properties in the presence of water. Some of them do so for non-aqueous systems as well. Isotrideceth-20 can also be used as an additive for organic pigments used e.g. for dyeing in the rubber and PVC industry, as it has strong wetting and dispersing properties for such products. It may be a useful active ingredient both at an initial phase of pigment synthesis and at concentrate production.
Isotrideceth-20 is highly resistant to many agents. It is stable both in acidic media and in diluted alkaline solutions. Its function is not affected by water hardness and the activity of the substance towards oxidising and reducing agents is exceptionally high. Thus the substance is suitable for cleaning formulations, where it acts as a detergent. Isotrideceth-20 is not classified in the Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council (EC) on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP) with hazard classes. Neither is it a hazard in the context of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, GHS. Another major issue concerning Isotrideceth-20 is its biodegradability. Due to the fact that surfactants are so commonly used, they will be inevitably released into water reservoirs, which will subsequently exert an adverse effect on their wildlife. Thus it is crucial that Isotrideceth-20 is a fully biodegradable agent in accordance with the biodegradation criteria established under Regulation (CE) No. 648/2004 on detergents. Organisations: the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and BfR (Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung) that regulate substances approved for contact with food and drugs have not published any contraindications concerning the use of Isotrideceth-20 as an indirect food additive.
