Product Overview
Ethylene Glycol Monostearate (EGMS) is an ester of ethylene glycol and stearic acid. It is used in selected formulations as a pearlizing agent, opacifier, and appearance modifier. Depending on the grade and formulation system, it can help create a pearlescent or creamy visual effect in surfactant-based products.
EGMS is mainly selected when the appearance of a finished product is important. Its performance depends on the raw material grade, processing temperature, surfactant system, cooling conditions, and the overall formulation.
Key Features and Benefits
- Pearlescent appearance: Can contribute a pearl-like visual effect in compatible formulations.
- Opacity modification: May help create a less transparent or more opaque appearance.
- Appearance enhancement: Useful for improving the visual presentation of selected liquid formulations.
- Formulation ingredient: Suitable for evaluation in compatible surfactant-based systems.
- Product development: Can be tested during laboratory trials and formulation development.
- Grade-dependent performance: Results depend on the supplier specification and manufacturing process.
Applications
Ethylene Glycol Monostearate may be evaluated in the following applications where the supplied grade is suitable:
- Shampoo and hair-care formulations
- Liquid soap and body-wash formulations
- Selected personal-care cleansing products
- Surfactant-based cleansing formulations
- Selected household and institutional cleaning products
- Cosmetic and toiletry product development
The suitability of EGMS for a specific application must be confirmed from the supplier’s documentation and through formulation testing. Cosmetic or personal-care use should not be assumed suitable solely from the ingredient name.
Product Specifications
- Product name: Ethylene Glycol Monostearate
- Abbreviation: EGMS
- Chemical class: Fatty acid ester
- Typical role: Pearlizing agent and appearance modifier
- CAS number: 111-60-4 is commonly listed for ethylene glycol monostearate; verify against the supplier’s documentation.
- Molecular formula: C₂₀H₄₀O₃ for the monostearate compound
- Molecular weight: Approximately 328.53 g/mol
- Appearance: Often supplied as white to off-white flakes, beads, or a waxy solid; actual appearance depends on grade and temperature.
- Solubility and processing: Water-insoluble or poorly water-soluble; incorporation generally requires a compatible formulation process.
- Grade and purity: As specified in the supplier’s TDS or COA.
These are general identification details, not a batch-specific certificate of analysis. Confirm the CAS number, composition, purity, physical form, and intended-use grade before purchase or use.
Why Source from MNTENT.com?
MNTENT.com helps customers source selected chemicals and formulation raw materials in smaller quantities for:
- Laboratory testing and evaluation
- Formulation trials and product development
- Small-batch experiments
- Research and ingredient comparison
Availability, pack size, grade, and dispatch details are subject to the current product listing and supplier documentation.
Storage and Handling
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
- Keep the container tightly closed and protect the material from moisture and contamination.
- Avoid excessive heat and follow the supplier’s recommended storage conditions.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment and good chemical-handling practices.
- Consult the current SDS before handling, processing, or disposing of the material.
- For personal-care products, verify the grade and applicable regulatory requirements before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is EGMS used for?
EGMS is used as a pearlizing agent and appearance modifier in selected formulations, including some surfactant-based cleansing products.
2. Is EGMS the same as EGDS?
No. EGMS means Ethylene Glycol Monostearate, while EGDS means Ethylene Glycol Distearate. They are different ingredients and should not be treated as interchangeable.
3. Can EGMS be used in shampoo?
It may be suitable for certain shampoo formulations, depending on its grade, the surfactant system, and the manufacturing process. Conduct compatibility and stability testing before production.
4. Is EGMS directly soluble in water?
EGMS is generally water-insoluble or poorly water-soluble. It usually requires an appropriate incorporation process rather than simple direct dissolution in cold water.
5. Is every EGMS grade suitable for cosmetics?
No. Confirm cosmetic suitability, purity, impurity limits, and relevant documentation with the supplier before using it in personal-care products.
6. Can I purchase EGMS in small quantities?
Small quantities may be available through MNTENT.com for testing and formulation evaluation, subject to current stock and pack-size availability.
