Properties of N,N-di(hydroxyethyl) Dodecyl Amine Oxide (OAE-12)

N,N-di(hydroxyethyl) dodecyl amine oxide (OAE-12) is a mild amphoteric surfactant. Its structure combines a hydrophobic C12 (lauryl) chain with a hydrophilic amine oxide headgroup that carries two hydroxyethyl groups. This unique structure gives it excellent surface activity, mildness, and compatibility with other surfactants.

Key Properties

Chemical Identity: Also known as Dihydroxyethyl Lauranine Oxide or OAE-12. Its CAS number is 2530-44-1, and its molecular formula is C₁₆H₃₅NO₃ with a molecular weight of approximately 289.45 g/mol.

Physical Form: It is typically supplied as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid. The melting point is reported to be around 59 °C.

Amphoteric Nature: The surfactant character changes with pH. In acidic conditions, it acts as a cationic surfactant, while in alkaline conditions, it behaves as a non-ionic surfactant.

Solubility: It is readily soluble in water and polar organic solvents.

Surface Activity: It functions as a foam booster and stabilizer, a thickener, an emulsifier, and an antistatic agent.

Mildness: A key feature is its low irritation potential. It is often used to reduce the irritation caused by other surfactants, such as anionic surfactants, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations.

Main Applications

Personal Care: Widely used in shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. It improves foam quality, makes hair softer and easier to comb, and provides a conditioning effect. It is particularly valued in "tear-free" and sensitive-skin formulations for its high mildness.

Household & Industrial Cleaning: Used in hard surface cleaners (for tableware, bathrooms, building exteriors) to provide thickening, reduce irritation, and boost cleaning efficiency. It is often compared favorably to traditional thickeners like 6501, requiring less material for a h3er effect.

Other Industrial Uses: It can act as a viscosity reducer, oil-displacing agent, and foaming agent in oilfield applications. It is also used in textile processing as a leveling agent and in metal cleaning formulations.

Typical Specifications

Safety and Storage

Safety: It should be handled with care to avoid contact with eyes and skin. In case of contact, flush immediately with plenty of water.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight. The shelf life is typically one to two years in a sealed container.