2023 AOCS Annual Meeting & Expo
Surfactants are widely used in domestic, agricultural, industrial and pharmaceutical applications with an estimated worldwide annual consumption of 13 million metric tons. The most commonly used are anionic (e.g., alkylsulfates, alkylbenzene sulfonates) and non ionic (e.g., ethoxylated alcohols as well as alkoxylated esters). In the range of uncharged chemical species exhibiting amphiphilic properties, alkoxylated products represent the major one. In the last two decades a novel class of more environmentally friendly compounds, the Alkyl Poly Glucosides (APG), has reached an industrial leading position. They are based on renewable glucose and fatty alcohol. APG’s, especially those with long chain exhibiting emulsifying properties and medium chain exhibiting foaming properties, have been widely spread in the cosmetic industry. Those with shorter chains have found extensive usages in industrial fields where their performance as well as their biodegradability are deeply recognized.
Heptyl Glucoside, a 100% bio-based surfactant, initially designed as a hydrotrope for Household, Industrial & Institutional markets, was revealed as an innovative and performing solubilizer for personal care applications. Thanks to its unusual non foaming and low wetting character, this solubilizer can fit the requirements of cleansing, including micellar waters. In foaming formulations, Heptyl Glucoside surprisingly helps to decrease the surfactant dosage without compromising the foaming performance. In addition, it allows to reduce at least by 2 the preservative dosage in natural certified cosmetics. Carbon footprint calculation has revealed a low value making this surfactant a valuable ingredient mixing both performances and low environmental impact.
Régis Marchand, Sophie Cambos, Alicia Roso