DIOCTYL CARBONATE

Dioctyl carbonate, known in cosmetic ingredient labeling as Dicaprylyl Carbonate, is a dialkyl carbonate with CAS 1680-31-5 and formula C17H34O3 used in skin-care emulsions, sun-care vehicles and other personal-care formulations. It is selected for rapid spreading, a relatively dry skin feel and its ability to help carry compatible oil-soluble ingredients. The liquid distributes across the application surface and contributes solvency or pigment wetting within the oil phase, with performance governed by the complete formulation.

CAS No: 1680-31-5
EC No: 434-850-2
Molecular formula: C17H34O3
Molecular weight: approximately 286.46 g/mol
Appearance: clear liquid
Color: colorless in representative cosmetic grades
Odor: almost odorless in representative cosmetic grades
Water solubility: practically insoluble
Density at 20°C: approximately 0.890-0.893 g/cm³ in a documented commercial grade
Dynamic viscosity at 20°C: approximately 6-8 mPa·s in that grade

WHAT IS DIOCTYL CARBONATE?

Dioctyl carbonate is a liquid carbonate ester used as a cosmetic emollient and solvent under the INCI name Dicaprylyl Carbonate. CAS 1680-31-5 identifies the substance associated with this name, rather than a solid fat or a therapeutic skin-treatment preparation.

The ingredient is particularly useful when a formulator wants a light-spreading oil phase without relying exclusively on heavier oils. It can be incorporated into creams, lotions and suitable anhydrous systems. The sensory result depends on the other emollients, emulsifiers, waxes and powders present.

Chemically, the idealized structure is the diester of carbonic acid and octyl alcohol. It should not be described as a fatty-acid triglyceride or as the product of hydrochloric acid reacting with an unsaturated diol. A cosmetic-grade commercial product can also contain a distribution of related alkyl carbonate components and stabilizing additives.

Botanical feedstock claims refer to the particular manufacturer's sourcing and processing. The chemical name alone does not prove that a material is wholly plant-derived, organic, palm-free or certified to a cosmetic standard. Obtain those details for the offered grade.

COMMON PRODUCT & CHEMICAL NAMES OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

Dioctyl carbonate
Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Di-n-octyl carbonate
Carbonic acid, dioctyl ester
Carbonic acid, dicaprylyl ester

Cetiol CC is a documented commercial designation associated with this ingredient. Trade names identify specific products, so their composition and certification should not be transferred automatically to another supplier's grade.

Dimethyl carbonate is a separate, much shorter-chain carbonate. Dicaprylyl Ether and Diethylhexyl Carbonate are also different ingredients, while dioctyl adipate belongs to the adipate ester family. Similar names do not make them interchangeable.

CAS, EC AND COSMETIC IDENTITY OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

Product name: Dioctyl carbonate
INCI name: Dicaprylyl Carbonate
CAS No: 1680-31-5
EC No: 434-850-2
Molecular formula: C17H34O3
Approximate molar mass: 286.46 g/mol
Chemical class: aliphatic dialkyl carbonate
Main cosmetic roles: emollient, skin-conditioning ingredient and solvent

The EC identifier belongs to the ELINCS series and should not simply be relabeled an EINECS number. A CAS or INCI identity establishes what the ingredient is, while the grade specification and application assessment establish whether a particular supply is suitable for the intended product.

STRUCTURE AND FORMULATION BEHAVIOR OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

A representative structure is C8H17-O-C(=O)-O-C8H17. A central carbonate group links the two alkyl chains. Unlike an adipate, it has one central carbonate carbonyl rather than an adipic-acid backbone containing two carboxyl-derived carbonyl groups.

The hydrocarbon chains give the molecule oil affinity, while its oxygen-containing group provides interaction with suitable organic ingredients. It is not a water-soluble humectant, a self-sufficient emulsifier or a film-forming polymer. Water-based products require an appropriate emulsion or dispersion system.

The expression dry emollient describes the after-feel on skin. It does not mean that the raw material is a powder, that it evaporates like a volatile silicone or that it removes water from skin. Emolliency is primarily a cosmetic softening and smoothing function, not evidence of treatment of inflammation or infection.

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

One documented commercial cosmetic grade specifies at least 96% dioctyl carbonate content and an acid value no higher than 0.2 mg KOH/g. Its refractive index at 20°C is 1.435-1.437 and density is 0.890-0.893 g/cm³. Descriptive data for that product include dynamic viscosity of 6-8 mPa·s at 20°C and a cloud point below -20°C.

These are grade-specific data, not a combined guarantee for all products bearing the INCI name. Other suppliers offer higher declared assay, and the analytical basis must be reviewed before interpreting the difference. The formula and molar mass describe the idealized C8/C8 carbonate, not every component of a commercial blend.

Cloud point indicates a defined appearance change and is not automatically a melting point or an approved storage limit. Likewise, the low dynamic viscosity of the raw oil does not predict the viscosity of a cream. Emulsion structure and the rheology system usually dominate that measurement.

An unqualified boiling point of 100°C is not used here, because reduced-pressure measurements cannot be presented as atmospheric values. Product-specific flash point, heating limits and storage requirements should be obtained from Ataman Kimya when needed for processing.

DIOCTYL CARBONATE IN SUN-CARE AND PIGMENTED SYSTEMS

The carbonate can contribute solvent capacity for compatible crystalline organic UV filters and assist wetting or dispersion of pigments. Dissolving a filter in a hot sample is only an initial observation. Cooling, long-term storage and the rest of the oil phase can alter solubility and lead to crystallization.

It is not itself a UV filter, and no SPF, UVA protection or water-resistance value can be assigned merely because it is present. Those claims require the finished product's appropriate tests. Pigment wetting also does not replace milling, dispersion aids or suspension control where these are required.

APPLICATION AREAS OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

Face and body emulsions: use as an emollient to adjust spreading and the balance of greasy and dry after-feel. Compare sensory behavior with viscosity and stability rather than judging the neat oil alone.

Sun-care oil phases: evaluate filter solvency, compatibility and recrystallization throughout the product's life. Solvent contribution must be separated from UV-filter efficacy.

Color cosmetics: examine pigment wetting, dispersion quality and surface finish in the actual binder. Sedimentation and color uniformity depend on the complete system.

Cleansing emulsions: the oil phase can help dissolve compatible makeup or oily residues. Cleansing performance and rinsing require the appropriate emulsifier or surfactant design.

Anhydrous personal-care oils: combine with compatible emollients to adjust spreading and residue. Check clarity, packaging and stability under the proposed storage conditions.

COSMETIC SAFETY CONTEXT OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

The cosmetic safety assessment of dialkyl carbonates includes Dicaprylyl Carbonate and concludes on safety under the uses and concentrations assessed when the products are formulated to be non-irritating. That is a qualified cosmetic conclusion, not a universal claim of safety at any concentration or by any route.

An INCI listing is not a medicinal approval. Claims of antimicrobial protein-synthesis inhibition, keratinocyte growth suppression or treatment of redness are not assigned to this ingredient here. Suitability for a finished cosmetic requires the relevant safety assessment and product testing.

PROBLEMS DIOCTYL CARBONATE CAN HELP ADDRESS

A heavy oil-phase feel: a faster-spreading emollient can be screened to rebalance the sensory profile without assuming complete equivalence to silicone.

Insufficient solvent capacity: the carbonate can be tested with a specified oil-soluble ingredient, measuring its actual solubility and stability at the target concentration.

Poor pigment wetting: it offers another liquid vehicle for dispersion development, while the mechanical process and suspension system still need optimization.

An unpleasant residue after application: adjust the whole emollient package and evaluate the finished product, because the effect of one oil can be masked by waxes, polymers or powders.

PRACTICAL USE OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

Work with the ingredient as part of an oil-phase design. Define whether the target is sensory adjustment, solvency or dispersion, then choose the tests that can demonstrate that contribution.

Confirm cosmetic grade and the complete supplied composition.
Check compatibility with the intended emulsifier and rheology system.
Monitor cold storage, temperature cycling and appearance.
Evaluate any UV-filter crystallization or pigment settling.
Review fragrance, preservative and packaging interactions.
Support origin and certification claims with product-specific documents.

Fast spreading does not prove deeper delivery of actives. A product with water also needs an appropriate preservation strategy, even if a commercial emollient itself is supplied unpreserved.

STARTING FORMULATIONS WITH DIOCTYL CARBONATE

The following compositions are proposed development examples based on established cosmetic uses and documented formulation levels. They are not validated commercial recipes. Percentages are by weight of the complete initial product, using materials as supplied, and every change requires a new mass balance and stability assessment.

DIOCTYL CARBONATE EXAMPLE 1: LIGHT OIL-IN-WATER EMULSION

Components:

Demineralized water: 75.50%
Glycerin: 4.00%
Dicaprylyl Carbonate: 5.00%
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: 8.00%
Cetearyl Alcohol and Cetearyl Glucoside emulsifier blend: 4.00%
Cetearyl Alcohol: 2.00%
Phenoxyethanol: 0.80%
Ethylhexylglycerin: 0.20%
Xanthan Gum: 0.30%
Sodium Phytate: 0.10%
Tocopherol: 0.10%
Total: 100.00%

Select processing conditions for the actual emulsifier and preservative products. If pH adjustment is needed, account for the added material by reducing water and reassess preservative suitability.

Evaluation criteria:

Emulsion homogeneity and droplet behavior
Spreading, slip and after-feel
Viscosity changes after storage and temperature cycling
Finished-product pH and packaging compatibility
Microbiological quality and preservative efficacy

No skin-treatment or SPF claim follows from this example, and the finished formula requires safety and stability validation.

DIOCTYL CARBONATE EXAMPLE 2: ANHYDROUS EMOLLIENT OIL

Components:

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: 60.00%
Squalane: 29.80%
Dicaprylyl Carbonate: 10.00%
Tocopherol: 0.20%
Total: 100.00%

This blend allows comparison of spreading and residue with a suitable control oil package. Tocopherol is included as an antioxidant, not as a substitute for microbial preservation or an automatic shelf-life guarantee.

Evaluation criteria:

Clarity and compatibility at the intended temperatures
Sensory performance at a defined application amount
Odor and color changes during aging
Packaging integrity and dispensing behavior
Microbiological risk considering manufacture and consumer use

The absence of intentionally added water does not remove the need for product-specific safety, contamination control and stability assessment.

DIOCTYL CARBONATE ALTERNATIVES AND RELATED INGREDIENTS

Dicaprylyl Ether: an ether emollient with a different functional group. It may support a light sensory profile, but solvency and compatibility need independent comparison.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate: a fatty-acid ester ingredient whose composition and sensory behavior differ from a carbonate. Consider it against the intended feel and oil-phase requirements.

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate: another cosmetic ester used in emollient and solvent systems. Compare the actual solubility of each proposed ingredient rather than choosing by a generic solvent claim.

Dimethicone: a silicone emollient with a different chemical structure. Replacing it can alter slip, residue and formulation behavior, so a one-for-one substitution is not guaranteed.

QUALITY AND PURCHASING OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

Specify Dioctyl carbonate, CAS 1680-31-5, with INCI Dicaprylyl Carbonate and the intended cosmetic use. Identify whether the offered product is neat emollient or a formulated dispersion, because a carbonate-based gel is not the same raw material.

Review assay and method, residual acidity, water, alcohol, color, odor and any stabilizing additives. Ask for the batch COA, technical specification and current SDS. Origin, renewable content and cosmetic-standard approvals require separate documentation for the particular product.

Costs depend on grade, documentation, packaging and quantity. Contact Ataman Kimya for missing limits, availability and the documents needed for the proposed application rather than assuming every supply matches a named manufacturer's specification.

STORAGE AND TRANSPORT OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

Keep the product in clean, closed containers protected from contamination and excessive heat. Storage temperature, warming instructions and shelf life must match the offered grade. A recommendation for an analytical sample should not be transferred automatically to a cosmetic bulk product.

Collect oily spills with a suitable absorbent, prevent slipping and keep residues out of drains. Use an appropriate disposal route for waste and contaminated packaging. For the supplied grade's transport classification and any UN assignment, please contact Ataman Kimya.

SAFETY INFORMATION OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE

Reviewed supplier documentation includes grades reported as not classified as hazardous under the stated GHS or CLP framework. This is not a reason to omit workplace hygiene or to make an unrestricted nontoxicity claim. Apply the current classification of the exact supplied product.

Use suitable gloves and eye protection during handling and provide ventilation where mist or heated emissions may occur. Wash skin after contact, rinse exposed eyes with clean water and obtain medical advice for continuing symptoms or significant exposure.

The organic liquid can burn when sufficiently heated. Control heat and incompatible materials according to the supplied safety information, prevent environmental release and assess the whole formulation separately from the raw emollient.

SUPPLY OF DIOCTYL CARBONATE FROM ATAMAN KIMYA

ATAMAN KİMYA can be contacted for Dioctyl carbonate supply and selection of a suitable grade. Confirm the INCI identity, composition, packaging and required documentation against the offered product.

A useful inquiry states the product type, intended function, trial or production quantity, acceptance limits, origin requirements and delivery destination. Include any cosmetic-standard documentation needs at the quotation stage.

FREQUENT QUESTIONS ABOUT DIOCTYL CARBONATE

What is the cosmetic INCI name?
Dicaprylyl Carbonate.

Which CAS and EC numbers identify it here?
CAS 1680-31-5 and EC 434-850-2.

What are its formula and molar mass?
C17H34O3 and approximately 286.46 g/mol for the idealized dioctyl structure.

Is the ingredient a solid fat?
Representative cosmetic grades are clear liquid oils, and dry emollient describes sensory behavior.

What is its main cosmetic contribution?
Emolliency, spreading and solvent support in appropriate formulations.

Is it a humectant like glycerin?
No, it is an oil-phase emollient rather than a water-soluble humectant.

Does it emulsify a cream by itself?
No, the formulation needs an appropriate emulsification system.

Can it help with crystalline UV filters?
It can provide solvent capacity for compatible filters, with crystallization and stability tested in the complete formula.

Does it provide its own SPF?
No, it is not itself a UV filter.

Does pigment wetting guarantee suspension?
No, dispersion processing and rheology must also control settling.

Is it identical to Dicaprylyl Ether?
No, an ether and a carbonate have different functional groups.

Is Dimethyl Carbonate a synonym?
No, it is a separate shorter-chain carbonate.

Is every grade completely plant-derived?
No such conclusion follows from the chemical name, sourcing and processing documentation are required.

Does cosmetic use prove treatment of irritated skin?
No, cosmetic emolliency does not establish anti-inflammatory or medicinal action.

Is 5% or 10% a universal recommended dose?
No, those are example levels for development, not a limit or optimum for every product.

Does an unpreserved emollient preserve an emulsion?
No, water-containing products need their own effective preservation strategy.

Does anhydrous mean no microbiological assessment?
No, manufacturing conditions and foreseeable use still need consideration.

What should be requested before purchasing?
The grade specification, batch COA, current SDS and relevant application or origin documentation.

DIOCTYL CARBONATE - TECHNICAL SUMMARY

Dioctyl carbonate is a cosmetic emollient associated with INCI Dicaprylyl Carbonate. CAS 1680-31-5 and EC 434-850-2 identify the substance, with idealized formula C17H34O3 and molar mass approximately 286.46 g/mol.

Its liquid, fast-spreading character is useful in oil-phase design for emulsions and anhydrous products. The term dry describes after-feel rather than physical solidity or guaranteed evaporation.

Solvency and pigment-wetting contributions support development of sun-care and color-care vehicles. They do not make the ingredient a UV filter or establish finished-product SPF, dispersion stability or water resistance.

Commercial grades differ in assay, related carbonate distribution, stabilizers and supporting documentation. Origin, cosmetic certification and storage limits should be checked for the actual supply.

Finished-product safety, stability, microbiological control and substantiation of claims remain necessary. The ingredient should not be assigned unverified medicinal or antimicrobial effects.

Dioctyl carbonate can be sourced from ATAMAN KİMYA. For further information and supply inquiries about Dioctyl carbonate, please contact ATAMAN KİMYA.