Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated (5 > EO < 20) (CAS 68439-45-2) — Citrus N/A Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Citrus · Floral

Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated (5 &gt; EO &lt; 20)

CAS 68439-45-2

Origin
synthetic
Note
N/A
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated (5 &gt; EO &lt; 20)?

Ethoxylated C6-12 alcohols are synthetic surfactants commonly found in cleaning products, cosmetics, and industrial applications. These ingredients help blend oil and water components, making them essential for formulations requiring stability and emulsification. Their versatility in different pH ranges and temperatures makes them valuable across multiple industries, though they are rarely encountered in fine fragrances.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Safe in regulated products
⚠ Check for skin irritation in sensitive individuals
CAS
68439-45-2
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Citrus · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated (5 &gt; EO &lt; 20) Smell Like?

Ethoxylated C6-12 alcohols typically have a faint, mild odor that is often described as slightly waxy or soapy. Due to their synthetic nature and primary use as surfactants, they do not contribute significantly to fragrance profiles. Their odor is neutral and unobtrusive, making them suitable for applications where scent interference is undesirable.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Ethoxylated C6-12 alcohols are synthesized by reacting linear or branched C6-12 alcohols with ethylene oxide. The resulting compounds are nonionic surfactants with varying degrees of ethoxylation, which determines their hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB). These molecules are part of a broader class of alcohol ethoxylates, widely used for their emulsifying and solubilizing properties.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceClear to pale yellow liquid
SolubilitySoluble in water and most organic solvents

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
N/A
Volatility
N/A
Blending
N/A
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Cleaning Products5-15%Up to 30%Primary surfactant
Cosmetics1-5%Up to 10%Emulsifier
Industrial10-20%Up to 50%Stabilizer

Classic Accords

Tip: Primarily used for emulsification rather than fragrance contribution.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Alcohols, C12-15, ethoxylated CAS 68131-39-5

Higher carbon chain length offers better emulsification for heavier oils.

2
Alcohols, C9-11, ethoxylated CAS 68439-46-3

Shorter carbon chain length provides improved water solubility.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

Not restricted by IFRA.

RIFM Assessment

Not assessed by RIFM due to primary industrial use.

Sustainability

Ethoxylated alcohols are derived from petrochemical sources, raising sustainability concerns. Efforts are being made to develop bio-based alternatives. Their biodegradability depends on the degree of ethoxylation, with higher ethoxylation generally leading to better environmental profiles.

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References

  1. PubChem: Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated PubChem
  2. ECHA: Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated ECHA

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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Ingredient Data Sheet

CAS 68439-45-2
Data Sources & Attribution
Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.

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