High-Purity Solvents, Personal Care

Coconut Monoethanolamide (CMEA)

Coconut Monoethanolamide, commonly referred to as CMEA, is a non-ionic surfactant synthesized through the alkanolamidation process of coconut oil fatty acids with monoethanolamine. This versatile chemical compound presents as a waxy, white to pale yellow solid at room temperature and is widely utilized in the personal care and detergent industries. Known for its exceptional foam-stabilizing properties, CMEA significantly enhances the viscosity of liquid formulations, making it a staple in shampoos, body washes, and liquid soaps. Unlike its counterparts, CMEA is favored for its high purity and biodegradability, aligning with modern ecological standards. It functions effectively across various pH ranges and exhibits excellent compatibility with anionic, cationic, and other non-ionic surfactants. By improving the tactile quality of foam—making it creamier and more persistent—CMEA elevates the consumer experience. Furthermore, its mild nature ensures it is suitable for sensitive skin applications, providing a thickening effect without the harshness associated with certain synthetic alternatives

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Exceptional foam boosting and stabilizing performance in aqueous solutions.
Superior thickening capabilities, especially when combined with salt or alkyl sulfates.
High stability in alkaline environments, making it suitable for heavy-duty cleaners.
Acts as a mild pearlizing agent in opaque liquid cosmetic formulations.
Provides lubrication and emolliency, enhancing the skin feel of personal cleansers.
Low free amine content ensures product safety and reduced irritation potential.
Biodegradable nature derived from renewable vegetable-based coconut oil feedstocks.
Excellent compatibility with various surfactant classes including anionic, cationic, and amphoteric types.
Effective grease emulsifier, improving the overall detergent cleansing power for industrial use and non-ionic blends.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Chemical Name: Coconut Fatty Acid Monoethanolamide.
CAS Number: 68140-00-1.
Appearance: Off-white waxy solid or flakes.
Odor: Characteristic faint fatty odor.
Melting Point Range: Typically between 70°C and 75°C.
Free Amine Content: Maximum 0.5% to 1.5%.
Free Fatty Acid: Maximum 0.5% weight basis.
Glycerol Content: Maximum 10% in crude grades.
pH Value (1% aqueous solution): 9.0 to 11.0.
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, ether, and surfactants.
Amide Content: Minimum 92% active matter.
Specific Gravity: Approximately 0.95 at 80°C.
HLB Value: Estimated around 5.0 to 6.0 range.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Primary foam stabilizer in clear or pearlescent liquid shampoos.
Viscosity modifier in bath gels and moisturizing body washes.
Additive in bar soaps to improve lather stability and texture.
Component in liquid dishwashing detergents for enhanced grease removal.
Used in hair conditioners as a secondary emulsifying and thickening agent.
Formulated into heavy-duty laundry detergents to boost cleaning efficiency.
Ingredient in shaving creams to provide a dense, rich foam.
Applied in industrial metal cleaners and rust inhibitors.
Essential thickener in bubble bath products for long-lasting bubbles.
Utilized in facial cleansers for its mild, non-irritating surfactant properties.