Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate: properties, applications and safety

General Description

Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate is a versatile and essential ingredient in personal care and hair care products. It exhibits excellent thickening, emulsifying, and softening properties, making it ideal for shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and fabric softeners. However, it requires careful handling and disposal due to its potential skin and eye irritant properties, as well as its toxicity to aquatic life. Adhering to safety guidelines, such as wearing protective gear and following proper disposal procedures, can minimize risks and promote a safe working environment. Overall, Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate enhances the performance of hair care products and contributes to their effectiveness and quality.

Figure 1. Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate

Properties

Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate is a white flaky substance that is soluble in both water and ethanol. It exhibits excellent compatibility with both cationic and non-ionic surfactants, and is stable at temperatures below 100 ℃. Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate is primarily used due to its exceptional thickening, emulsifying, and softening properties. Its thickening properties make it an effective agent in various personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, and lotions, providing a desirable consistency and texture. Additionally, it exhibits excellent emulsifying properties, allowing it to stabilize mixtures of oil and water-based ingredients, creating stable and uniform cosmetic products. Moreover, its softening properties make it a common additive in fabric softeners and hair conditioners. Overall, the properties of Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate make it a versatile ingredient in the formulation of personal care and household products. Its compatibility with other surfactants and stability make it an essential component in many commercial formulations. ¹

Applications

Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate is a widely used ingredient in hair care and shampoo products. It is primarily used as a hair conditioning agent, softening the hair and making it more manageable. Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate also helps to improve the texture and appearance of hair, leaving it smoother and shinier. In addition to its use in conditioners, ointments, and shampoos, it can also be found in a range of other hair care products, including styling gels, mousses, and hair sprays. Its unique properties make it an essential ingredient in many hair care formulations, helping to improve the overall performance and effectiveness of these products. Overall, Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate plays a crucial role in the hair care industry, contributing to the development of high-quality hair care products that are both effective and safe for use. Its versatility and reliability have made it a popular choice among manufacturers, and it is likely to remain a key ingredient in hair care products for years to come. ²

Safety

Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate presents potential safety concerns and requires appropriate handling and disposal procedures. It is important to adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate any risks associated with this chemical. BTMS has been identified as a skin irritant and can cause serious eye damage. Prolonged or repeated exposure through ingestion may lead to organ damage. Additionally, it is highly toxic to aquatic life and can have long-lasting effects on the environment. To ensure safety, it is advised to avoid breathing in dust, fumes, gas, mist, vapors, or spray containing BTMS. Proper protective gear, such as gloves, eye protection, and face protection, should be worn when handling this compound. If BTMS comes into contact with the skin, it should be washed off with plenty of soap and water. In case of eye contact, cautious rinsing with water for several minutes is recommended, followed by immediate medical assistance. If skin irritation occurs, medical advice should be sought. Contaminated clothing should be removed and washed before reuse, and spillage should be carefully collected. Disposal of BTMS and its container should be done according to approved waste disposal regulations. By following these safety measures, the potential risks associated with Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate can be minimized, promoting a safe working environment and reducing negative impacts on human health and the environment. ³

Reference

1. PubChem. COMPOUND SUMMARY: Behentrimonium methosulfate. National Library of Medicine, 2005, CID: 157846.

2. Palefsky I. John Masters Organics Bare Unscented Detangler for All Hair Types.Cosmetics & Toiletries, 2011, 11: 126.

3. Registration Dossier: Docosyltrimethylammonium methyl sulphate. Europa, EC number: 279-791-1.

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