Lauramide DEA (Lauric Diethanolamide) CAS 120-40-1

Lauramide DEA (Lauric Diethanolamide) – Foam Booster and Viscosity Stabilizer for Personal Care Products

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 120-40-1

• Approximate Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₃₃NO₃

• Appearance: Viscous yellow liquid or waxy solid

• Odor: Slight, soapy

• Density: ~0.97–1.00 g/cm³

• Melting Point: 25–50°C (depending on purity)

• Flash Point: ~150–180°C

• Solubility: Moderate in water, good in alcohols, insoluble in nonpolar solvents

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers at 10–30°C, protected from light and moisture

Overview
Lauramide DEA (lauric diethanolamide) is an organic compound formed by the partial amidation of lauric acid (C12 fatty acid) with diethanolamine. It is a widely used secondary surfactant in personal care and household cleaning formulations. Its primary functions include foam boosting, viscosity stabilization, and improving the overall sensory feel of products. Lauramide DEA is commonly found in shampoos, shower gels, liquid soaps, and other cleansing products.

Mechanism of Action
As an amide-based surfactant, Lauramide DEA reduces surface tension and enhances foam volume and stability. It interacts with primary anionic surfactants (e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate) to produce a rich, creamy lather while also thickening the formulation, thereby improving product consistency and ease of application.

Applications

• Shampoos and conditioners: Boosts foam, enhances cleansing, and provides conditioning effects.

• Shower gels and body washes: Improves viscosity and texture, delivering a luxurious feel.

• Liquid soaps and hand cleansers: Stabilizes foam and enhances cleaning performance.

• Cosmetics and creams: Used as an emulsifier and thickener in lotions and creams.

• Household cleaners: Incorporated into dishwashing liquids and all-purpose cleaners for improved foaming.

Key Benefits

• Effective foam booster and stabilizer.

• Enhances viscosity and product consistency.

• Reduces the irritation potential of primary surfactants.

• Compatible with anionic, nonionic, and amphoteric surfactants.

• Provides mild conditioning to skin and hair.

• Cost-effective and widely available.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe at typical use levels (1–5%).

• May cause mild skin and eye irritation at high concentrations; use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

• Potential formation of nitrosamines in the presence of nitrites under extreme pH conditions; use of nitrite-free raw materials and appropriate inhibitors is recommended.

• Biodegradable under aerobic conditions, but large discharges should be controlled to minimize environmental impact.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from strong oxidizers and acids.

• Shelf life: typically 24 months under recommended storage conditions.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for active content, pH, and foam performance to ensure consistent quality and compliance with regulatory standards.