PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a nonionic surfactant produced by the ethoxylation of hydrogenated castor oil [1]. This process involves reacting hydrogenated castor oil with ethylene oxide, creating a water-soluble ingredient commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products.

The production process of PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil begins with the hydrogenation of castor oil to saturate its carbon-carbon double bonds [2]. This is followed by ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide is added to the hydrogenated castor oil in the presence of a catalyst; the number '40' indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units added to the castor oil molecule [3].

PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil functions primarily as an emulsifier, helping to mix oil and water-based ingredients in formulations [4]. It also acts as a solubilizer, aiding in the dissolution of fragrances and essential oils in water-based products and as a surfactant, reducing surface tension [5].

In cosmetic applications, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is found in a variety of products, including skin lotions, creams, cleansers, shampoos, and makeup removers [6]. It helps to create stable emulsions, enhances product texture, and aids in the even distribution of ingredients on the skin or hair [7].

PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is typically packaged in drums or containers suitable for industrial use; transportation should adhere to standard practices for non-hazardous materials, ensuring protection from extreme temperatures and moisture [8].

Citations:
[1] Johnson, W., Bergfeld, W. F., Belsito, D. V., Hill, R. A., Klaassen, C. D., Liebler, D. C., … & Heldreth, B. (2013). Safety assessment of castor oil, hydrogenated castor oil, glyceryl ricinoleate, glyceryl ricinoleate SE, Ricinoleic Acid, potassium ricinoleate, sodium ricinoleate, zinc ricinoleate, cetyl ricinoleate, ethyl ricinoleate, isopropyl ricinoleate, methyl ricinoleate, and octyldodecyl ricinoleate. International journal of toxicology, 32(3 suppl), 5S-31S.
[2] O'Neil, M. J. (Ed.). (2013). The Merck index: An encyclopedia of chemicals, drugs, and biologicals (15th ed.). Royal Society of Chemistry.
[3] Fiume, M. M. (2001). Final report on the safety assessment of PEG-10 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-20 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-30 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-50 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-80 Hydrogenated Castor Oil. International Journal of Toxicology, 20(4 suppl), 61-73.
[4] Löffler, M., Fuhrmann, H., Ruwiedel, J., & Schwabe, U. (2000). Arzneiformenlehre. Deutscher Apotheker Verlag.
[5] Ash, M., & Ash, I. (2004). Handbook of preservatives. Synapse Information Resources.
[6] Draelos, Z. D. (2010). Cosmetics dermatology. John Wiley & Sons.
[7] Lodén, M., & Maibach, H. I. (Eds.). (2006). Dry skin and moisturizers: chemistry and function. CRC press.
[8] European Chemicals Agency. (2023). Information on Registered Substances: Hydrogenated Castor Oil, ethoxylated.

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