Decyl Glucoside, scientifically known as APG 0810 and identified by CAS number 68515-73-1, is a widely recognized and utilized non-ionic surfactant. Its growing prominence in diverse industries, particularly personal care, cosmetics, and cleaning products, stems from a unique set of properties that combine efficacy with environmental consciousness. This deep dive aims to illuminate the science behind Decyl Glucoside and its manifold applications.

At its core, Decyl Glucoside is an alkyl polyglucoside (APG). Its synthesis involves a chemical reaction between glucose, a sugar derived from plants like corn, and decyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. This process yields a molecule that is both hydrophobic (due to the decyl chain) and hydrophilic (due to the glucose moiety), enabling it to function effectively as a surfactant by lowering surface tension.

The defining characteristics of Decyl Glucoside include its exceptional mildness. As a non-ionic surfactant, it carries no electrical charge, which makes it significantly less likely to cause skin or eye irritation compared to ionic surfactants. This inherent gentleness is a major advantage, making it a preferred ingredient for products targeted at sensitive skin, infants, and those with delicate conditions like eczema. Its low toxicity further reinforces its suitability for these sensitive applications.

Another crucial property is its biodegradability. Derived from renewable plant sources, Decyl Glucoside is readily biodegradable, meaning it breaks down naturally in the environment without leaving harmful residues. This eco-friendly profile aligns with global sustainability initiatives and consumer demand for greener products.

Functionally, Decyl Glucoside excels in its cleansing and foaming abilities. It effectively emulsifies oils and dirt, allowing them to be easily washed away. The foam it produces is typically rich, dense, and stable, contributing to a luxurious user experience in products such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. Moreover, it has good compatibility with other surfactants, enabling formulators to create synergistic blends that optimize performance, texture, and stability.

The applications for Decyl Glucoside are extensive. In personal care, it's a common ingredient in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, hand soaps, and facial cleansers. In cosmetics, it serves as a cleansing agent, emulsifier, and foaming agent in makeup removers, micellar waters, and cleansing milks. For household cleaning, it's used in dish soaps, laundry detergents, and surface cleaners due to its grease-cutting ability and environmental safety.

As a dedicated supplier of high-quality chemical ingredients, we are committed to providing Decyl Glucoside that meets stringent industry standards. By understanding its properties and applications, formulators can effectively leverage this versatile and sustainable surfactant to create innovative and consumer-preferred products.