Is Ethylhexylglycerin natural?

Petrochemical 2-ethylhexanol reacted with glycidol or epichlorohydrin. When the epoxide is petrochemical the value falls to 0.0; confirm with the supplier.

The industrial synthesis of Ethylhexylglycerin (2-ethylhexylglycerin) typically begins with the production of 2-ethylhexanol. Propylene, a common petrochemical feedstock, is first converted to n-butyraldehyde and iso-butyraldehyde via the oxo process (hydroformylation) using a rhodium or cobalt catalyst under high pressure and temperature (e.g., 100-200°C, 10-100 bar).

The n-butyraldehyde undergoes an aldol condensation reaction, often catalyzed by a base like sodium hydroxide, to form 2-ethylhexenal. This unsaturated aldehyde is then hydrogenated, typically using a nickel or palladium catalyst at elevated temperatures and pressures, to yield 2-ethylhexanol. This multi-step process transforms simple petrochemical building blocks into the required C8 alcohol.

Once 2-ethylhexanol is obtained, it is reacted with glycidol (2,3-epoxy-1-propanol) or a derivative thereof. Glycidol itself can be synthesized from allyl alcohol, which is often derived from propylene. The reaction between 2-ethylhexanol and glycidol is an etherification, typically carried out under basic conditions (e.g., using sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide) at moderate temperatures (e.g., 100-150°C). This opens the epoxide ring of glycidol and forms the ether linkage, yielding 2-ethylhexylglycerin.

Purification of the final product is crucial to meet cosmetic grade standards. This usually involves distillation under reduced pressure to remove unreacted starting materials, byproducts, and catalyst residues. Techniques like fractional distillation are employed to achieve high purity, ensuring the absence of impurities that could affect product stability, efficacy, or safety in cosmetic formulations.

Ethylhexylglycerin is a synthetic ingredient commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products. It's often added to help preserve the product, meaning it works alongside traditional preservatives to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, thereby extending the product's shelf life and keeping it safe for use. It can also act as a skin conditioning agent, helping to soften and smooth the skin.

CosIng definition: Ethylhexylglycerin is the organic compound that conforms to the formula