C9-C11 alcohol ethoxylate

C9–C11 alcohol ethoxylate (CAS Number: 68439-46-3) is a nonionic surfactant derived from a blend of high-purity linear primary alcohols containing carbon chain lengths of C9, C10, and C11. These alcohols typically comprise 75–85% by weight of the blend and possess a molecular mass in the range of 158–164. The linear structure of these primary alcohols contributes to efficient surface activity and improved biodegradability compared to branched-chain alternatives. Through ethoxylation, ethylene oxide units are added to the alcohol backbone, enhancing water solubility and functional versatility.

C9-C11 alcohol ethoxylate is widely used as an intermediate in the manufacture of various ethoxylated derivatives and lubricant formulations. The addition of ethylene oxide (EO) modifies the hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB) of the molecule, allowing it to function effectively as a wetting agent, emulsifier, dispersant, and detergent component. Because of its relatively shorter carbon chain length compared to higher alcohol ethoxylates, it often provides strong wetting and detergency performance, making it particularly valuable in industrial and institutional cleaning systems.

Venus-Goa manufactures four grades of C9–C11 alcohol ethoxylates in large quantities, with average ethoxylation levels of 2.5, 4, 6, and 8 moles of EO per mole of alcohol. These variations allow precise tailoring of solubility, foaming, and emulsification characteristics according to application requirements. Lower EO grades generally exhibit greater oil solubility and are suitable for emulsifiable concentrates and lubricant blends, while higher EO grades provide enhanced water solubility and detergency for aqueous formulations.

In addition to their use in ethoxylate production and lube oils, C9–C11 alcohol ethoxylates are also applied in metalworking fluids, agrochemical formulations, textile processing aids, and specialty cleaning products. Their balanced performance profile, combined with readiness for biodegradation under appropriate environmental conditions, makes them a preferred choice in modern surfactant technology. Overall, these materials offer a combination of efficiency, adaptability, and performance reliability across a broad spectrum of industrial applications.