POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 7- COCOATE

Polyethylene Glycol 7-Cocoate (PEG 7-Cocoate) is a water-soluble ester of polyethylene glycol and coconut fatty acid, widely used as a mild surfactant and emulsifier in various personal care and cosmetic products. It is valued for its ability to solubilize oils in water-based formulations, making it a crucial ingredient in creating smooth, stable emulsions.

Applications

1. Cosmetics and Personal Care

PEG 7-Cocoate is most commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products due to its mildness and excellent emulsifying properties. It helps in stabilizing water-in-oil and oil-in-water emulsions.

Uses:

• Emulsifier in creams, lotions, and moisturizers
• Surfactant in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers
• Solubilizer in deodorants and perfumes

Benefits:

• Enhances product stability and texture
• Provides a smooth feel on the skin and hair
• Non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin types
• Helps disperse oils in water-based formulations

2. Pharmaceutical Industry

PEG 7-Cocoate is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as a solubilizer and emulsifier in topical creams, ointments, and gels.

Uses:

• Carrier for topical drug delivery systems
• Solubilizing agent in ointments and creams for uniform distribution of active ingredients

Benefits:

• Facilitates controlled release of active ingredients
• Increases the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs in topical applications

3. Industrial Applications

In industrial formulations, PEG 7-Cocoate serves as an effective emulsifier and dispersing agent in various processes.

Uses:

• Emulsifying agent in industrial lubricants and cleaners
• Additive in paints and coatings to stabilize emulsions

Benefits:

• Improves the effectiveness and stability of industrial products
• Enhances lubricant properties and cleaning performance
• Compatible with a wide range of substances

4. Food and Beverage Industry

Though less common, PEG 7-Cocoate is sometimes used as a food-grade emulsifier or stabilizer in food and beverage formulations.

Uses:

• Emulsifying agent in low-fat foods and beverages
• Stabilizing agent in food dressings and sauces

Benefits:

• Promotes uniform consistency and texture in emulsified food products
• Helps in creating stable, homogenous mixtures

Safety and Handling

Safety Precautions

While Polyethylene Glycol 7-Cocoate is considered safe for most applications, it is important to follow proper safety guidelines to minimize potential risks.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use gloves and safety goggles when handling. Avoid prolonged skin contact.
• Inhalation: No significant risk when used in well-ventilated areas. However, avoid inhalation of dust or mist.
• Avoid Contact with Eyes: In case of contact with eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.

First Aid Measures

• Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water. If irritation develops, seek medical attention.
• Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation persists, consult a healthcare provider.
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical help if discomfort continues.
• Ingestion: If swallowed, rinse mouth with water and consult a doctor for further advice.

Storage Guidelines

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Keep containers tightly closed to avoid contamination and evaporation.
• Avoid contact with incompatible materials such as strong acids or oxidizing agents.

Environmental Considerations

PEG 7-Cocoate is biodegradable and considered to have minimal environmental impact when used in accordance with recommended guidelines. Avoid excessive release into natural water sources to prevent unnecessary environmental load.