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Alcohols, C9-C11 Ethoxylated

  • Nonionic surfactants
  • CAS 68439-46-3
  • IUPAC: Alcohols, C9-11, ethoxylated

H302 (harmful if swallowed), H312 (harmful in skin contact), H318 (serious eye damage) at ingredient level. At product-level dilutions in detergent formulations, primary concern is eye contact. Skin sensitization not classified.

Ethoxylated C9–C11 alcohols are nonionic surfactants derived from petrochemical or oleochemical alcohols and ethylene oxide. They appear in a wide range of cleaning and detailing products as emulsifiers, wetting agents, and coupling agents. The ethoxylation degree (number of ethylene oxide units) governs HLB and foaming behavior. At product concentrations (1–10%), the primary hazard is eye and skin irritation. At ingredient level, serious eye damage (H318) classification reflects undiluted ingredient testing.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
yes
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
3/5
Purpose: Nonionic wetting and emulsifying surfactant; broad surface compatibility, low-foaming

1 product contain this

Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.