Product: Polyethylene Glycol 150 Distearate (PEG 150 Distearate)
Rchem PEG-150 Distearate is a high-purity, non-ionic polymeric diester, presented as white to off-white waxy flakes, beads, or powder. This high molecular weight polyethylene glycol derivative is formed by the esterification of PEG-150 with stearic acid. Renowned for its exceptional thickening, emulsifying, and pearlizing properties, it is a cornerstone ingredient in the personal care and cosmetic industries for producing elegant, pearlescent shampoos, body washes, liquid soaps, and creams with enhanced viscosity and lustrous appearance
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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VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does the "150" in PEG-150 Distearate mean?
The number "150" refers to the average number of ethylene oxide (EO) units in the polyethylene glycol chain. PEG-150 has an average molecular weight of approximately 7,000-8,000 Daltons. This high molecular weight gives PEG-150 Distearate its unique thickening and pearlizing properties. Lower molecular weight PEG distearates (e.g., PEG-4 Distearate, PEG-8 Distearate) are primarily emulsifiers, while higher molecular weight grades (PEG-150, PEG-6000 Distearate) are thickeners and pearlescers.
The mechanism is based on the formation of a lamellar gel network. When PEG-150 Distearate is dispersed in water or a surfactant system, the long PEG chains hydrate and swell, while the stearate (fatty acid) portions form crystalline structures. These structures align to form a three-dimensional network that: (1) Traps water and increases viscosity; (2) Reflects light, producing a pearlized appearance. Unlike salt thickening (which only works with specific surfactants and is temperature-sensitive), PEG-150 Distearate provides robust, stable thickening and pearlescence across a wider range of conditions.
How does PEG-150 Distearate work as a thickener and pearlizing agent?
Salt (NaCl) thickens by "salting out" or dehydrating surfactant micelles, which works only for certain surfactants (e.g., SLES) and is highly temperature-sensitive. Over-salting can cause phase separation (de-thickening). PEG-150 Distearate thickens by forming a gel network that is: (1) More stable across temperature fluctuations; (2) Less irritating (reduces the need for high salt levels, which can cause dryness); (3) Works with more surfactant systems (including non-ionic and amphoteric); (4) Provides pearlized aesthetics simultaneously. It is often used in combination with salt to fine-tune viscosity and reduce salt requirements.
What is the advantage of using PEG-150 Distearate over traditional salt (sodium chloride) for thickening shampoos?
No, not for clear formulations. PEG-150 Distearate is designed to produce opaque, pearlized formulations. When added to a clear shampoo, it will create a pearlescent, opaque, or milky appearance. If you require a clear, non-pearlized thickener for shampoos, alternatives such as PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, or certain crosspolymers would be more appropriate. For pearlized, rich, opaque formulations (e.g., moisturizing shampoos, body washes, cream cleansers), PEG-150 Distearate is an excellent choice.
Is PEG-150 Distearate suitable for clear shampoos?
Handling: PEG-150 Distearate is a waxy solid (flakes/beads/powder) at room temperature. Use appropriate PPE including a dust mask, gloves, and safety goggles to avoid inhalation and skin contact. Formulation: For best results, disperse PEG-150 Distearate in the surfactant phase (e.g., SLES, CAPB, water) and heat to 65-75°C (149-167°F) with gentle stirring until fully melted and dispersed. Add other ingredients and cool slowly while mixing to develop full pearlescence and viscosity. Typical usage: 0.5% - 3.0% of total formulation. For maximum thickening, use in combination with salt (0.5-2.0%). Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed 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.
