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Send EmailC13-C15 Alcohol Ethoxylate, Nonionic Surfactant, Alcohol Ethoxylates, C13-C15 Oxo Alcohol, 3 EO, 5EO, 7EO, 8EO, 10EO, 11EO, 12EO, 20EO, 64425-86-1
C13-C15 ALCOHOL ETHOXYLATES
Lutensol® AO Series - Nonionic Surfactants
CAS: 64425-86-1
| CAS Number | 64425-86-1 |
| Chemical Class | Nonionic Surfactant (Alcohol Ethoxylate) |
| INCI Name | C13-15 Oxo Alcohol Ethoxylate |
ITEM 1: PRODUCT IDENTITY AND NOMENCLATURE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Alcohols, C13-15, Ethoxylated |
| CAS Number | 64425-86-1 |
| EC Number | Not assigned (polymer) |
| Product Series | Lutensol® AO (BASF) |
| Synonyms | C13-C15 Oxo Alcohol Ethoxylates, Nonionic Surfactants, Alcohol Ethoxylates, Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates |
| Chemical Family | Alcohol Alkoxylates |
| Active Content | Approximately 100% |
| Toxicity | Low Toxicity |
| Biodegradability | >80% biodegradable |
Description: Lutensol® AO series are nonionic surfactants produced by BASF through the ethoxylation of synthetic C13-C15 oxo alcohols . The series offers different ethoxylation degrees (EO numbers) to provide varying hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB), cloud points, and physical forms for diverse applications. The products are characterized by high purity, low odor, and a narrow homolog distribution .
ITEM 2: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Family | Alcohol Ethoxylates (Nonionic Surfactants) |
| Hydrophobe | Synthetic C13-C15 Oxo Alcohol |
| Hydrophile | Ethylene Oxide (EO) Units |
| Carbon Chain | C13 (approx. 67%) + C15 (approx. 33%) |
| Functional Group | Polyethylene Glycol Ether (-O-(CH₂-CH₂-O)ₙ-H) |
| Ethoxylation Degree | Varies by grade (3, 5, 7, 8, 11, 12, 20 EO) |
General Structure:
R - O - (CH₂-CH₂-O)ₙ - H
Where:
R = C13-C15 alkyl chain (synthetic oxo alcohol)
n = Number of ethylene oxide (EO) units (3-20)
Description: The Lutensol® AO series is based on synthetic C13-C15 oxo alcohols with a narrow carbon chain distribution (approx. 67% C13 and 33% C15) . The ethoxylation degree varies by grade, with each product designated by its EO number (e.g., Lutensol® AO 3 contains an average of 3 moles of EO per mole of alcohol) . The products are approximately 100% active with no added solvents or carriers .
ITEM 3: PRODUCT GRADES AND PHYSICAL FORMS
| Grade | EO Units | Physical Form (23°C) | Cloud Point | HLB Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lutensol® AO 3 | 3 EO | Liquid | ~45°C (E) | ~8 |
| Lutensol® AO 5 | 5 EO | Liquid | ~62°C (E) | ~10 |
| Lutensol® AO 7 | 7 EO | Liquid | ~43°C (A) | ~12 |
| Lutensol® AO 8 | 8 EO | Paste | ~52°C (A) | ~12.5 |
| Lutensol® AO 11 | 11 EO | Paste | ~86°C (A) | ~14 |
| Lutensol® AO 12 | 12 EO | Paste/Solid | – | – |
| Lutensol® AO 20 | 20 EO | Solid | – | – |
Description: The Lutensol® AO series is available in liquid, paste, and solid forms depending on the ethoxylation degree . Lower EO grades (AO 3, AO 5, AO 7) are liquids at room temperature, while higher EO grades (AO 8, AO 11) are pastes . The cloud point increases with EO content, indicating higher water solubility .
ITEM 4: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES - LUTENSOL® AO 3
| Property | Specification / Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear liquid | Visual |
| Color | Darkening/Transparent liquid | Visual |
| Active Content | ~100% | – |
| Density (20°C) | ~0.93 g/cm³ | – |
| Viscosity (20°C) | ~40 mPa·s | – |
| Solidification Point | <5°C | – |
| Hydroxyl Value | ~160 mg KOH/g | – |
| pH (1% aqueous) | ~7 | – |
| Flash Point | ~130°C | DIN 51376 |
| HLB Value | ~8 | – |
| Cloud Point | ~45°C (E) | – |
Description: Lutensol® AO 3 is a low-foaming nonionic liquid surfactant with high lipophilicity (low HLB ~8). It is soluble in petroleum fractions, alcohols, aromatics, and chlorinated hydrocarbons, but only slightly soluble in water, 5% hydrochloric acid, and 5% sodium chloride . It is an effective emulsifier and detergent for removing fatty soils from textiles .
ITEM 5: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES - LUTENSOL® AO 5
| Property | Specification / Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear liquid | Visual |
| Color | Darkening/Transparent liquid | Visual |
| Active Content | ~100% | – |
| Density (20°C) | ~0.96 g/cm³ | – |
| Viscosity (20°C) | ~40 mPa·s | – |
| Solidification Point | <5°C | – |
| Hydroxyl Value | ~130 mg KOH/g | – |
| pH (1% aqueous) | ~7 | – |
| Flash Point | ~150°C | DIN 51376 |
| HLB Value | ~10 | – |
| Cloud Point | ~62°C (E) | – |
Description: Lutensol® AO 5 is a nonionic liquid surfactant with moderate HLB (~10). It offers good oil removal performance and is commonly used in synthetic fiber degreasing applications, particularly for polyester and polyamide fabrics . It is soluble in petroleum fractions, alcohols, aromatics, and chlorinated hydrocarbons, and slightly soluble in water .
ITEM 6: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES - LUTENSOL® AO 7
| Property | Specification / Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear liquid | Visual |
| Active Content | ~100% | – |
| HLB Value | ~12 | – |
| Cloud Point | ~43°C (A) | – |
| CMC (Critical Micelle Concentration) | <0.02 g/L | – |
| Toxicity | Low Toxicity | – |
Applications: Lutensol® AO 7 is a high-performance nonionic surfactant with excellent emulsification, dispersion, wetting, and compatibilizing properties . It is widely used in:
-
Textile processing (synthetic fiber degreasing, T/C fabric cleaning)
-
Agrochemical formulations (emulsifier concentrates, oil/water emulsions, suspension concentrates)
-
Industrial and institutional cleaners
-
Emulsifier concentrates and microemulsions
ITEM 7: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES - LUTENSOL® AO 8 & AO 11
| Property | Lutensol® AO 8 | Lutensol® AO 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Soft paste | Soft paste |
| Physical Form (23°C) | Paste | Paste |
| EO Units | 8 EO | 11 EO |
| HLB Value | ~12.5 | ~14 |
| Cloud Point | ~52°C (A) | ~86°C (A) |
| CMC (Critical Micelle Concentration) | <0.02 g/L | 0.017 g/L |
| Alkali Stability (NaOH) | – | >100 g/L NaOH (24 hr) |
Applications - Lutensol® AO 8:
-
Industrial and institutional detergents
-
High-performance cleaning formulations
-
Emulsification applications
Applications - Lutensol® AO 11:
-
High-performance cotton scouring agents
-
Silicone oil emulsification (special structure silicone oils)
-
Degreasing formulations for synthetic fibers
-
Formulations requiring excellent alkali resistance
ITEM 8: SOLUBILITY AND COMPATIBILITY
| Solvent / Medium | Lutensol® AO 3 / AO 5 |
|---|---|
| Water | Slightly soluble |
| Petroleum Fractions | Soluble |
| Alcohols | Soluble |
| Aromatics (Toluene, Xylene) | Soluble |
| Chlorinated Hydrocarbons | Soluble |
| 5% Hydrochloric Acid | Slightly soluble |
| 5% Sodium Chloride | Slightly soluble |
| Compatibility | Status |
|---|---|
| Anionic Surfactants | Compatible |
| Cationic Surfactants | Compatible |
| Other Nonionic Surfactants | Compatible |
| Dyes | Compatible |
| Protective Colloids | Compatible |
| Grease Lubricants | Compatible |
Description: Lower EO grades (AO 3, AO 5) are lipophilic and soluble in organic solvents but only slightly soluble in water. Higher EO grades become increasingly water-soluble . The Lutensol® AO series is compatible with anionic, cationic, and other nonionic surfactants, as well as dyes, protective colloids, and grease lubricants, making them highly versatile for complex formulations .
ITEM 9: KEY PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) | <0.02 g/L for all grades |
| Low COD Contribution | Effective at low concentrations, reducing COD values |
| Low Toxicity | Environmental and user-friendly |
| Biodegradability | >80% biodegradable |
| Excellent Oil Removal | Effective degreasing of synthetic fibers |
| Emulsification | Excellent for oils, waxes, and silicone oils |
| Wetting & Dispersion | Superior wetting and dispersing properties |
| Alkali Stability | AO 11: >100 g/L NaOH (24 hours) |
Description: The Lutensol® AO series offers several key advantages:
-
Low CMC: All products have CMC values below 0.02 g/L, meaning effective performance at very low concentrations, which also contributes to lower COD values .
-
Low Toxicity: The products are recognized for their low toxicity and environmental compatibility .
-
Biodegradability: The surfactants are readily biodegradable (>80%), supporting sustainable formulation design .
-
Versatility: The series offers excellent emulsification, dispersion, wetting, and compatibilizing properties across various applications .
ITEM 10: CHEMICAL INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Surfactant Production | Raw material for formulated surfactant blends |
| Emulsifier Concentrates | Key component for stable emulsions |
| Industrial Formulations | Versatile surfactant for various industrial applications |
| Synthetic Fiber Processing | Degreasing and cleaning of polyester and polyamide fabrics |
Description: In the chemical industry, Lutensol® AO series serves as versatile nonionic surfactants. Their excellent emulsification, wetting, and dispersing properties make them valuable in industrial formulations. The series is particularly effective for removing fatty soils from fiber textiles .
ITEM 11: CLEANING AND DETERGENT APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Household Detergents | Surfactant for laundry powders and gels |
| Industrial Cleaners | Hard-surface degreasers, pre-treatment baths |
| Heavy-Duty Degreasers | Effective oil and grease removal |
| Laundry Formulations | Low-temperature washing performance |
| Synthetic Fiber Degreasing | Effective for polyester and polyamide fabrics |
Description: Lutensol® AO series is widely used in the cleaning industry for household and industrial detergents . The low cloud point values make them particularly suitable for low-temperature washing applications . Lower EO grades (AO 3, AO 5, AO 7) are commonly used as efficient synthetic fiber degreasers .
ITEM 12: TEXTILE INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Synthetic Fiber Scouring | Degreasing of polyester, polyamide fabrics |
| Cotton Scouring | High-performance cotton scouring agent (AO 11) |
| T/C Fabric Cleaning | Effective for cleaning polyester-cotton blends |
| Oil Removal | Removing oil and grease from synthetic fibers |
| Wetting Agent | Improving wetting properties in textile processing |
| Dyeing Auxiliary | Compatible with dyes and protective colloids |
Description: The textile industry is a key application area for Lutensol® AO series . AO 5 and AO 7 are commonly used as efficient synthetic fiber degreasers for polyester and polyamide fabrics . AO 11 is used for high-performance cotton scouring with excellent alkali resistance (>100 g/L NaOH) . The surfactants are compatible with dyes and protective colloids, making them valuable as dyeing auxiliaries .
ITEM 13: AGROCHEMICAL APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Emulsifier Concentrates | Stabilizing emulsions for crop protection products |
| Emulsions (Oil/Water) | Stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions |
| Suspension Concentrates | Dispersing active ingredients in suspension formulations |
| Microemulsions | Formulating stable microemulsion systems |
| Oil Dispersions | Active ingredient dispersion and foliar retention |
| Adjuvants | Improving active ingredient dispersion |
Description: Lutensol® AO series is used in agrochemical formulations for various formulation types including emulsifier concentrates, oil/water emulsions, suspension concentrates, microemulsions, and oil dispersions . The excellent emulsification and dispersing properties make them valuable adjuvants for improving active ingredient performance.
ITEM 14: COATINGS AND METALWORKING APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Paint and Coatings Additives | Pigment wetting and stabilization |
| Metalworking Fluids | Soluble oils, semi-synthetic coolants |
| Industrial Lubricants | Emulsification and wetting properties |
| Protective Coatings | Wetting and leveling properties |
Description: In coatings and metalworking applications, Lutensol® AO series provides effective wetting, emulsification, and stabilization properties. They are used as additives in paint and coating formulations for pigment wetting . In metalworking fluids, they serve as emulsifiers in soluble oils and semi-synthetic coolants .
ITEM 15: PERSONAL CARE AND COSMETICS APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic Formulations | Emulsifiers, wetting agents |
| Personal Care Products | Emulsification and texture improvement |
| Shampoos and Body Washes | Mild surfactants |
| Creams and Lotions | Emulsion stabilization |
| INCI Name | C13-15 Oxo Alcohol Ethoxylate |
Description: The Lutensol® AO series can be used in cosmetic and personal care applications where their excellent emulsifying, wetting, and dispersing properties are valued . They can enhance emulsion stability and improve product texture. However, specific product suitability should be confirmed with BASF for each application.
ITEM 16: REGULATORY AND CERTIFICATION STATUS
| Certificate / Standard | Status |
|---|---|
| REACH (EC 1907/2006) | Registered and compliant |
| FDA 40 CFR 180.910 | Compliant (Food Contact) |
| FDA 40 CFR 180.930 | Compliant |
| FDA 40 CFR 180.940 | Compliant |
| FDA 40 CFR 180.960 | Compliant |
| TSCA (USA) | Listed |
| EINECS (EU) | Listed |
| Biodegradability | >80% biodegradable |
| Low Toxicity | Certified |
Description: The Lutensol® AO series is registered and compliant with REACH and major chemical inventories worldwide. It holds FDA 40 CFR compliance for food contact applications . The products are recognized for low toxicity and are readily biodegradable, supporting sustainable formulation design .
ITEM 17: SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity | Low toxicity |
| Skin Irritation | May cause mild irritation |
| Eye Irritation | May cause irritation |
| Skin Sensitization | Generally non-sensitizing |
| Inhalation | Dust/mist may cause respiratory irritation |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Mutagenicity | Not classified |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable (>80%) |
| Ecotoxicity | Low aquatic toxicity |
Description: Lutensol® AO series products are recognized for their low toxicity profile . They are readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions and have low aquatic toxicity. Standard industrial hygiene practices should be followed when handling.
ITEM 18: HANDLING AND PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Skin Contact | Wash with soap and water |
| Eye Contact | Rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes |
| Inhalation | Avoid mist inhalation; use ventilation |
| Ingestion | Seek medical attention if large amounts swallowed |
| Ventilation | Adequate general or local exhaust |
| Gloves | Nitrile or neoprene gloves |
| Eye Protection | Safety goggles |
| Protective Clothing | Chemical-resistant apron |
Description: Standard industrial hygiene practices should be followed when handling Lutensol® AO products. While the products have low toxicity, proper PPE and ventilation should be used to minimize exposure, especially when handling liquid or paste forms.
ITEM 19: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | 15 – 30°C |
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Container Type | Original sealed containers |
| Materials of Construction | Steel, HDPE, stainless steel |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (unopened, recommended conditions) |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong oxidizers, excessive heat |
| Signs of Degradation | Color darkening, odor change, phase separation |
Description: Lutensol® AO products should be stored in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas. Liquid products may solidify at low temperatures but can be re-liquefied by gentle warming. Exposure to extreme temperatures should be avoided to prevent quality degradation.
ITEM 20: SELECTION GUIDE - WHICH GRADE TO USE
| Application Need | Recommended Grade |
|---|---|
| Oil-in-water emulsification (lipophilic) | Lutensol® AO 3 (HLB ~8) |
| Balanced oil/water emulsification | Lutensol® AO 5 (HLB ~10) |
| General-purpose surfactant | Lutensol® AO 7 (HLB ~12) |
| Water-in-oil emulsification (hydrophilic) | Lutensol® AO 8 (HLB ~12.5) |
| High-temperature applications | Lutensol® AO 11 (HLB ~14) |
| Synthetic fiber degreasing | Lutensol® AO 5 or AO 7 |
| Cotton scouring (alkaline conditions) | Lutensol® AO 11 |
| Silicone oil emulsification | Lutensol® AO 11 |
| Industrial hard-surface degreasers | Lutensol® AO 3, AO 4, AO 5 |
| Metalworking fluids | Lutensol® AO 4, AO 5 |
| Agrochemical adjuvants | Lutensol® AO 7, AO 11 |
| Coatings (pigment wetting) | Lutensol® AO 3, AO 4 |
Description: The choice of Lutensol® AO grade depends on the specific application requirements, particularly HLB value, cloud point, physical form, and desired performance characteristics . Lower EO grades (AO 3, AO 5) are more lipophilic and suitable for oil-in-water emulsification and degreasing, while higher EO grades (AO 8, AO 11) are more hydrophilic and suitable for high-temperature and high-alkali applications .
PACKAGING INFORMATION
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Packaging | 200 kg drums, IBCs, ISO containers |
| Bulk Packaging | Tank trucks (liquid grades) |
| Smaller Packaging | 25 kg containers (available upon request) |
| Storage Conditions | Store in sealed containers, avoid extreme temperatures |
SYNONYMS AND ALIASES
| English | Turkish |
|---|---|
| C13-C15 Alcohol Ethoxylates | C13-C15 Alkol Etoksilatlar |
| Lutensol® AO Series | Lutensol® AO Serisi |
| Nonionic Surfactants | Noniyonik Yüzey Aktifler |
| Alcohol Ethoxylates | Alkol Etoksilatlar |
| C13-C15 Oxo Alcohol Ethoxylates | C13-C15 Okso Alkol Etoksilatlar |
| Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates | Yağlı Alkol Etoksilatlar |
| Polyethylene Glycol Ethers | Polietilen Glikol Eterler |
QUALITY AND CERTIFICATION SUMMARY
| Certificate / Standard | Status |
|---|---|
| ISO 9001:2015 | BASF certified manufacturing |
| REACH (EC 1907/2006) | Registered and compliant |
| FDA 40 CFR | Food contact compliant |
| Low Toxicity | Certified |
| Biodegradable | >80% aerobic degradation |
Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet provides typical values for reference purposes only. All values are based on standard laboratory measurements and do not constitute a binding specification. For binding properties, please request the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each specific batch. The user is solely responsible for determining product suitability for their intended application and for compliance with all applicable regulations. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) must be requested from the supplier before use.
