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Alcohols, secondary C11-15, ethoxylated

  • Nonionic surfactants
  • CAS 68131-40-8
  • IUPAC: Alcohols, C11-15-secondary, ethoxylated

H302 (harmful if swallowed) and H317 (skin sensitization Cat 1B) at ingredient level. The H317 designation makes this surfactant a documented skin sensitizer; gloves are warranted for repeated bare-hand contact at use concentrations.

C11-15 secondary ethoxylated alcohols are nonionic surfactants common to leather cleaners and interior cleaning blends. Their distinguishing feature relative to primary-alcohol ethoxylates is the H317 (skin sensitization Cat 1B) classification at the ingredient level — repeated dermal exposure can trigger allergic skin reactions in sensitized individuals. At consumer product concentrations (typically <1%), the systemic risk is low but the sensitization potential persists.

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 cleaning surfactant; emulsifies oils and lifts ground-in soil from leather and interior surfaces

1 product contain this

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