PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a nonionic surfactant produced by the ethoxylation of hydrogenated castor oil, a process that involves reacting hydrogenated castor oil with ethylene oxide [1]. The "60" in the name indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units added to the hydrogenated castor oil molecule [2]. This ethoxylation process enhances the water solubility of the oil, making it useful in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications [3].

The production process begins with the hydrogenation of castor oil to saturate the carbon-carbon double bonds present in the ricinoleic acid, the primary fatty acid component [4]. Hydrogenation typically involves using a catalyst, such as nickel, under high pressure and temperature [5]. The hydrogenated castor oil is then reacted with ethylene oxide in the presence of a catalyst, such as potassium hydroxide, to form PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil [6]. The reaction is carefully controlled to achieve the desired degree of ethoxylation, ensuring the final product has the desired properties [7].

PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil functions primarily as a surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer, in cosmetic formulations [8]. As a surfactant, it reduces the surface tension between liquids, allowing them to mix more easily [9]. As an emulsifier, it helps to stabilize mixtures of oil and water, preventing them from separating [10]. Its solubilizing properties aid in dispersing oils and fragrances in water-based products, ensuring a clear and homogenous formulation [11].

This ingredient is utilized in a wide range of cosmetic products, including skin cleansers, shampoos, lotions, and creams [12]. In skin cleansers, it helps to remove dirt and oil from the skin [13]. In shampoos, it aids in the dispersion of oils and fragrances, and provides a cleansing action [14]. In lotions and creams, it emulsifies the oil and water phases, creating a stable and smooth product [15]. It is also used in the formulation of make-up products, such as foundations and mascaras, where it helps to disperse pigments and create a uniform application [16].

PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is typically packaged in drums or containers made of materials such as plastic or steel, depending on the quantity and intended use [17]. Transportation should adhere to standard practices for non-hazardous materials, ensuring that the product is protected from extreme temperatures and moisture during transit [18]. Storage should be in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and incompatible substances [19].

Citations:
[1] CIR Expert Panel. (2019). Safety Assessment of PEG Castor Oil Derivatives as Used in Cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(1_suppl), 6S-35S.
[2] Fiume, M. M. (2001). Final report on the safety assessment of PEG-5, -10,-16,-20,-25,-30,-35,-40,-50,-55,-60,-75,-80,-90,-100,-120,-150,-180,-200 Castor Oil, PEG-5,-10,-16,-20,-25,-30,-35,-40,-45,-50,-60,-70,-80,-100 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-6,-8,-10,-12,-20,-20 Sorbitan Beeswax, PEG-10 Vegetable Oil, and PEG-20 Almond Oil. International Journal of Toxicology, 20(Suppl 4), 61-89.
[3] Johnson, W., Bergfeld, W. F., Belsito, D. V., Hill, R. A., Klaassen, C. D., Liebler, D. C., … & Marks, J. G. (2013). Safety assessment of Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Wax, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, and Glyceryl Ricinoleate. International Journal of Toxicology, 32(3 suppl), 59S-75S.
[4] Mutlu, H., & Meier, M. A. R. (2010). Castor oil as a renewable resource for chemical industry. European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology, 112(1), 10-30.
[5] Sonntag, N. O. V. (1979). Hydrogenation of fats and oils: theory and practice. Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society, 56(11), 729A-732A.
[6] Schick, M. J. (1966). Nonionic Surfactants. Marcel Dekker.
[7] Porter, M. R. (1994). Handbook of Surfactants. Chapman & Hall.
[8] Löffler, M., & Rieger, J. (2014). Cosmetics and Toiletries: Development, Production and Use. Wiley-VCH.
[9] Rosen, M. J. (2004). Surfactants and Interfacial Phenomena. John Wiley & Sons.
[10] Tadros, T. F. (2013). Emulsions Formation, Stability, and Rheology. Wiley-VCH.
[11] Eccleston, G. M. (1997). Application of emulsion stability theories to cosmetic and pharmaceutical emulsions. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 19(2), 47-73.
[12] Draelos, Z. D. (2010). Cosmetics in Dermatology. John Wiley & Sons.
[13] Baumann, L. (2009). Cosmetic Dermatology: Principles and Practice. McGraw-Hill.
[14] Wolfram, L. J. (2000). Hair and Hair Care. Marcel Dekker.
[15] Schlossman, M. L., & Shapiro, R. A. (2009). The Chemistry and Manufacture of Cosmetics. Allured Pub.
[16] Payne, N. Z., & Jones, D. (2005). Cosmetic Formulation: Principles and Practice. Taylor & Francis.
[17] Briston, J. H. (1983). Plastic Films. Longman Scientific & Technical.
[18] UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. (n.d.). Model Regulations.
[19] Ash, M., & Ash, I. (2004). Handbook of Preservatives. Synapse Information Resources.

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