Product: Emulgin B-2 (Ceteareth-20)
Rchem Emulgin B-2 is a high-purity, non-ionic emulsifier and surfactant, presented as white to off-white waxy pellets, flakes, or pastilles. Chemically known as Ceteareth-20, it is a polyethylene glycol ether of cetearyl alcohol (a blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohols) with an average of 20 moles of ethylene oxide (EO). Renowned for its high hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB value of approximately 15.2-15.7), it is a cornerstone ingredient in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries for producing stable, elegant oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, particularly when used in combination with lipophilic co-emulsifiers such as Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, or Emulgin B-3.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
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PALM DERIVATIVES STATUS
VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between Emulgin B-2 (Ceteareth-20) and standard Ceteareth-20?
There is no chemical difference. Emulgin B-2 is the brand name for Ceteareth-20 originally manufactured by BASF (formerly Henkel). It is a specific grade of Ceteareth-20 known for consistent quality, low impurity profile, and reliable performance. Rchem's Emulgin B-2 is an equivalent high-quality substitute, offering the same chemical composition, HLB value, and emulsifying performance as the branded product.
While Emulgin B-2 can be used alone as a primary O/W emulsifier, it is most effective and stable when used in combination with a lipophilic co-emulsifier. The classic and highly effective pairing is: Emulgin B-2 (Ceteareth-20) – High HLB (hydrophilic, water-loving) Emulgin B-3 (Ceteareth-30 / Cetearyl Alcohol) or Cetearyl Alcohol – Low HLB (lipophilic, oil-loving) This combination creates a balanced emulsifier system that produces exceptionally stable, elegant emulsions with superior skin feel. The typical ratio is 1:1 to 1:3 (B-2 : co-emulsifier).
Does Emulgin B-2 need to be used with a co-emulsifier?
Standard Emulgin B-2 (Ceteareth-20) is an ethoxylated emulsifier. Ethoxylated ingredients are generally not permitted in strict natural certifications such as ECOCERT, COSMOS, or NATRUE. For natural-certified formulations, alternative emulsifiers such as Cetearyl Glucoside (and) Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, or Cetearyl Olivate (and) Sorbitan Olivate are recommended. Rchem can supply natural-certified emulsifier systems upon request. Please specify your certification requirements.
Is Emulgin B-2 suitable for natural or ECOCERT-certified formulations?
HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance) is a 0-20 scale indicating an emulsifier's preference for water (high HLB) or oil (low HLB). An O/W emulsion typically requires emulsifiers with HLB values between 8-18. The Required HLB of the oil phase (a property of the specific oil blend) must be matched. Emulgin B-2's HLB of ~15.5 makes it suitable for emulsifying a wide range of oils with Required HLB values typically between 12-16. It can also be blended with lower HLB emulsifiers (e.g., Glyceryl Stearate, HLB ~3.8; Cetearyl Alcohol, HLB ~15.5 but oil-loving; Emulgin B-3) to match the exact Required HLB of a specific oil phase, achieving maximum stability.
How does the HLB of Emulgin B-2 (15.2-15.7) help in emulsion formulation?
Handling: Emulgin B-2 is a waxy solid (pellets/flakes) at room temperature. Use appropriate PPE including a dust mask, gloves, and safety goggles. Avoid inhalation of dust. Formulation (Hot Process O/W Emulsion): (1) Add Emulgin B-2 to the oil phase along with lipophilic co-emulsifiers (Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate) and oils; (2) Heat both oil and water phases to 70-80°C (158-176°F) ; (3) Ensure Emulgin B-2 is fully melted; (4) Slowly add water phase to oil phase with high-shear mixing; (5) Homogenize for 2-5 minutes; (6) Cool slowly with gentle stirring to room temperature. Usage levels: Typically 1-4% as primary emulsifier; 0.5-2% as co-emulsifier. Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed original containers. Protect from moisture, extreme heat (below 40°C / 104°F), and direct sunlight. Shelf life is typically 24-36 months under proper storage. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive handling, safety, and first-aid information.
