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Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated

  • Nonionic surfactants
  • CAS 68439-45-2
  • IUPAC: Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated

Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated (CAS 68439-45-2) appears in 2 of the 1,812 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026). It is readily biodegradable.

Low acute oral and dermal toxicity. Eye irritant at concentrated levels. Not classified as an asthmagen or skin sensitizer. Not on the Prop 65 list. GHS classification at ingredient level depends on concentration and exposure route.

Alcohols, C6-12, ethoxylated (CAS 68439-45-2) is a nonionic surfactant derived from short-chain alcohols (6 to 12 carbons) reacted with ethylene oxide. It functions as a cleaning agent, wetter, and co-surfactant in detergent formulations, including automotive interior cleaners. At the ingredient level, it is classified as harmful to aquatic organisms with long-lasting effects (H412, chronic aquatic Cat 3), though the product-level classification in a finished formulation depends on concentration and the combined classification of all ingredients. It is readily biodegradable and does not bioaccumulate.

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 surfactant and co-surfactant; used for cleaning, wetting, and emulsification in household and automotive cleaners

Common questions about Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated

What is Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated used for in car care?
Nonionic surfactant and co-surfactant; used for cleaning, wetting, and emulsification in household and automotive cleaners
Is Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated a VOC?
No. Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated is not on California's Proposition 65 list.
Is Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated biodegradable?
Yes. Alcohols, C6-12, Ethoxylated has a confirmed biodegradable profile.

2 products contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.