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EMPILAN EGMS is a specialty non-ionic surfactant and cosmetic additive, chemically known as ethylene glycol monostearate, that is widely used in the formulation of shampoos, shower gels, liquid soaps, creams, and lotions.
EMPILAN EGMS's most distinctive role is as a pearlizing and opacifying agent, where it imparts a silky, shimmering, pearlescent appearance to finished formulations, giving them a premium and aesthetically pleasing look highly valued in personal care markets.
Beyond its visual benefits, EMPILAN EGMS also acts as a viscosity modifier and secondary emulsifier, helping to stabilize emulsions, improve the thickness and body of surfactant systems, and enhance the texture and application properties of personal care products.
CAS Numbers: 111-60-4
EC Numbers: 203-882-0
Molecular Formula: C20H40O3
Molecular Weight: ~328.53 g/mol
Synonyms: ETHYLENE OXIDE, 1,4-DIOXANE, PEG-100 stearate, peg-100, peg 100 sterat, polyethylene glycol (100) stearate, Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-(1-oxooctadecyl)-.omega.-hydroxy- (100 mol EO average molar ratio), Glyceryl Stearate (and) PEG-100 Stearate; Glikol stearat; polioksietilen 100 stearat, Glycol stearate, 2-Hydroxyethyl stearate, 2-Hydroxyethyl octadecanoate, Ethylene glycol monostearate, Cremophor A, Polyethylene glycol monostearate, Cerasynt M, Clearate G, Cerasynt MN , Cithrol PS, Polyoxyl 100 stearate, Lactine, Polystate, Cithrol 10MS, Cerasynt 660, Polystate B, Prodhybase P, Akyporox S 100, PEG stearate, Emerest 26100, Stearoks 6, Stearoxa-6, Nikkol MYS, Stearox 6 , Pegosperse S 9, Emanon 3113, Glycol monostearate, Stenol 8, Arosurf 1855E100, Emcol H 35-A, PEG-8 Stearate, Monthybase, Monthyle, Parastarin, Ivorit, OCTADECANOIC ACID, 2-HYDROXYETHYL ESTER, Prodhybase 10000, Sedetol, Stearoks 920, Nikkol MYS 4, Nonion S 2, Nonion S 4, Tego-stearate, Stearox 920, Lipal 15S, Prodhybase ethyl, Lipo-Peg 4-S, Nikkol MYS 100, Nikkol MYS 45, Nikkol MYS-25, Nonex 28, Nonex 29, Nonex 36, Nonex 53, Nonex 54, Nonex 63, PEG-150 stearate, Prodhybas N, Trydet SA 100, Empilan CP-100, Empilan CQ-100, Nonion S 15, Polyoxyl 50 stearate, Clindrol SEG
EMPILAN EGMS is a waxy, non-ionic surfactant widely used in personal care and cosmetic formulations as a pearlizing agent, opacifier, and viscosity enhancer.
Chemically, EMPILAN EGMS is the ethylene glycol monostearate ester, typically supplied as a white to off-white flake or powder with a mild fatty odor.
EMPILAN EGMS is valued for its ability to impart a silky, pearlescent appearance to shampoos, body washes, liquid soaps, and lotions, while also improving the texture and stability of emulsions.
EMPILAN EGMS functions by modifying the refractive index of formulations, giving products a premium, opaque finish without significantly altering their performance.
In addition to its aesthetic contribution, EMPILAN EGMS provides secondary benefits such as enhanced foam stability, improved skin feel, and thickening effects when combined with anionic or amphoteric surfactants.
EMPILAN EGMS is easily incorporated into hot oil or surfactant phases during manufacturing and is compatible with a wide range of ingredients.
Due to its low toxicity and good dermatological profile, EMPILAN EGMS is regarded as safe for use in rinse-off and leave-on applications, making it a versatile and popular ingredient in modern personal care products.
EMPILAN EGMS is wholly derived from raw materials of vegetable, mineral and / or synthetic origin and materials of animal origin are not intentionally employed on the units where EMPILAN EGMS is manufactured or processed.
Therefore we have no reason to expect the possibility of contamination by agents that might cause BSE / TSE.
Feedstocks may include material chemically derived from coconut or palm kernel oil.
To the best of our knowledge, neither species is grown on a commercial scale using genetically modified strains.
In addition, EMPILAN EGMS is believed that genetically modified material would not survive the subsequent physical and chemical processes involved during exctraction of the oil and chemical derivatisation.
EMPILAN EGMS is a glycol cetearate in flake form.
EMPILAN EGMS is used as pearlising agent in low viscosity shampoos, cleansing creams, liquid soaps and bath gels.
EMPILAN EGMS is also used as an opacifier and oil-soluble emulsifier in such preparations as hand lotions and hand creams.
The viscosity of the finished emulsion varies directly with the concentration of the ester but generally speaking 0.5% to 5.0% of EMPILAN EGMS may be used in hand lotions and 1.0% to 10.0% in hand creams.
EMPILAN EGMS is a specialty non-ionic surfactant and cosmetic additive, chemically known as ethylene glycol monostearate, that is widely used in the formulation of shampoos, shower gels, liquid soaps, creams, and lotions.
EMPILAN EGMS typically appears as a white to off-white waxy flake or powder with a faint fatty odor and is readily dispersible in hot surfactant bases or oil phases during product manufacturing.
EMPILAN EGMS's most distinctive role is as a pearlizing and opacifying agent, where it imparts a silky, shimmering, pearlescent appearance to finished formulations, giving them a premium and aesthetically pleasing look highly valued in personal care markets.
This pearlescent effect is achieved by altering the refractive index of the product, producing a soft, opaque glow without compromising clarity or stability.
Beyond its visual benefits, EMPILAN EGMS also acts as a viscosity modifier and secondary emulsifier, helping to stabilize emulsions, improve the thickness and body of surfactant systems, and enhance the texture and application properties of personal care products.
EMPILAN EGMS contributes to foam stabilization in shampoos and body washes, resulting in richer, creamier lather, and provides a smoother, softer skin feel after washing.
In leave-on formulations such as creams and lotions, EMPILAN EGMS can improve spreadability and tactile properties while maintaining stability against separation.
EMPILAN EGMS is compatible with a broad range of surfactants, including anionic, amphoteric, and non-ionic systems, and is easily incorporated during the heated phase of production, typically at concentrations of 1–5%.
EMPILAN EGMS is considered safe, non-irritating, and of low toxicity, which has contributed to its widespread acceptance in both rinse-off and leave-on applications.
EMPILAN EGMS's versatility, stability, and multifunctional performance make it an important ingredient not only in personal care and cosmetics but also in some household cleaning and specialty industrial formulations where pearlescent effects and viscosity modification are desired.
Market Overview of EMPILAN EGMS:
The market for EMPILAN EGMS is strongly linked to the broader personal care ingredients and surfactants sector, which has been experiencing steady growth worldwide.
Valued within a global industry worth over USD 10 billion annually, pearlizing agents such as EMPILAN EGMS are increasingly in demand as consumers seek premium-looking shampoos, body washes, lotions, and liquid soaps with silky, opaque, and pearlescent appearances.
The ingredient not only provides aesthetic appeal but also contributes to viscosity control, foam stability, and improved texture, making it especially attractive for formulators who want to combine performance with sensory enhancement.
Growth is particularly strong in the Asia-Pacific region, where rising disposable incomes, population growth, and expanding cosmetics and personal care industries in countries like China and India are driving higher consumption of products that incorporate pearling agents.
Meanwhile, North America and Europe remain major markets due to their mature cosmetics industries and strong consumer preference for sophisticated formulations, though these regions also face increasing regulatory pressure and a push toward sustainable, naturally derived alternatives.
As a result, suppliers of EMPILAN EGMS are focusing on high-quality production standards, consistent performance, and exploring bio-based sourcing options to align with evolving trends in green chemistry.
Despite challenges from cost competition, regulatory scrutiny, and the availability of alternative opacifiers or natural pearls, EMPILAN EGMS remains a cost-effective, multifunctional, and widely accepted solution, ensuring its continued role in enhancing the performance, appearance, and consumer appeal of modern personal care and household cleaning products.
Uses of EMPILAN EGMS:
Manufacturers use EMPILAN EGMS widely in the personal care and cosmetics industry, where it functions as a pearlizing agent to give shampoos, body washes, and liquid soaps a shimmering, pearlescent finish that enhances consumer appeal.
Formulators apply EMPILAN EGMS as an opacifier to provide an opaque, creamy look to products, making them appear richer and more premium, while it also acts as a viscosity modifier that thickens surfactant-based systems, improving texture and stability.
Cosmetic chemists rely on EMPILAN EGMS as a foam stabilizer, enhancing lather quality in shampoos and cleansers, and it contributes as a skin feel enhancer by providing a smooth, silky after-feel in lotions and creams.
Hair care formulators use EMPILAN EGMS in shampoos, conditioners, and 2-in-1 products to improve viscosity, foam quality, and appearance, giving shampoos a creamy lather and premium look that differentiates them in the market.
Personal care companies incorporate EMPILAN EGMS in shower gels, hand soaps, and body washes to create a luxurious impression, while formulators also use it in creams and lotions as a co-emulsifier and stabilizer.
Detergent manufacturers occasionally add EMPILAN EGMS to dishwashing liquids and specialty cleaners, where it provides opacity and mild thickening while enhancing the appearance of premium cleaning formulations.
Industrial formulators apply EMPILAN EGMS as a secondary emulsifier or stabilizer in oil-in-water emulsions beyond cosmetics, and specialty product manufacturers use it in wax polishes, coatings, and detergents where a pearly or opaque appearance is desired.
EMPILAN EGMS is used as pearlising agent in low viscosity shampoos, cleansing creams, liquid soaps and bath gels.
EMPILAN EGMS is also used as an opacifier and oil-soluble emulsifier in such preparations as hand lotions and hand creams.
The viscosity of the finished emulsion varies directly with the concentration of the ester but generally speaking 0.5% to 5.0% of EMPILAN EGMS may be used in hand lotions and 1.0% to 10.0% in hand creams.
EMPILAN EGMS is suitable for use in formulations that must comply with the European directives on Cosmetics (76/768/EC) and Detergents (648/2004/EC) and their subsequent amendments.
Personal Care and Cosmetics:
Manufacturers use EMPILAN EGMS as a pearlizing agent, giving shampoos, body washes, and liquid soaps a shimmering, pearlescent finish that enhances consumer appeal.
Formulators apply EMPILAN EGMS as an opacifier, providing an opaque, creamy look to formulations, making them appear richer and more premium.
EMPILAN EGMS functions as a viscosity modifier, helping to thicken surfactant-based systems, improving texture and stability.
Cosmetic chemists use EMPILAN EGMS as a foam stabilizer, enhancing foam richness and stability in shampoos and cleansers.
EMPILAN EGMS contributes as a skin feel enhancer, providing a smooth, silky after-feel in lotions and creams.
Hair Care Products:
Hair care formulators use EMPILAN EGMS in shampoos, conditioners, and 2-in-1 formulas to improve viscosity, foam quality, and product appearance.
EMPILAN EGMS provides shampoo products with a creamy lather and premium look, differentiating mass-market products.
Body Care and Cleansing:
Personal care companies widely use EMPILAN EGMS in shower gels, liquid hand soaps, and body washes, where pearlescence and opacity give a luxurious impression.
Formulators also use EMPILAN EGMS in body lotions and creams as a co-emulsifier and stabilizer.
Household Cleaning Products:
Detergent manufacturers occasionally incorporate EMPILAN EGMS into dishwashing liquids and specialty cleaners, both for opacity and as a mild thickener.
EMPILAN EGMS enhances the appearance of premium cleaning formulations, giving them a richer texture and aesthetic.
Industrial and Specialty Applications:
Industrial formulators apply EMPILAN EGMS as a secondary emulsifier or stabilizer in oil-in-water emulsions beyond cosmetics.
Specialty product manufacturers use EMPILAN EGMS in wax polishes, specialty coatings, and certain detergents, where pearl or opaque appearance is desired.
Features of EMPILAN EGMS:
Pearlizing agent,
Opacifier,
Oil soluble emulsifier,
Viscosity modifier.
Wetting Ability:
The wetting ability was determined by the method ISO 8022 “Determination of wetting power by immersion”, commonly referred to as the Draves wetting test.
The results are expressed as the time elapsed, in seconds, measured at 25°C, with shorter wetting times indicating more efficient wetting agents.
Foam Characteristics:
The foam characteristics were determined by the ASTM standard D1173, Ross & Miles foam test method.
The tests were carried out at a concentration of 1g/L in hard water and readings are expressed as volume of foam in mL, in seconds, at 25°C, at 0 seconds, then again after 60 and 300 seconds.
Production of EMPILAN EGMS:
EMPILAN EGMS is produced by the esterification reaction of ethylene glycol with stearic acid (or stearic acid-rich fatty acids).
This process involves reacting a fatty acid (C₁₈, primarily stearic acid derived from natural fats and oils such as palm oil or tallow) with ethylene glycol under controlled conditions of temperature and catalysis.
Raw Materials:
Ethylene glycol (HO–CH₂–CH₂–OH)
Stearic acid (CH₃(CH₂)₁₆COOH) or mixed fatty acids rich in C₁₈ chains
Acid catalysts (often sulfuric acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, or solid catalysts)
Reaction Process:
Esterification is carried out at 160–220 °C, where ethylene glycol reacts with stearic acid.
Water is continuously removed from the system (via distillation) to drive the reaction toward ester formation.
EMPILAN EGMS, though small amounts of di- and triesters may also form.
Purification:
The crude product is cooled, solidified, and purified by filtration or crystallization.
By-products such as unreacted fatty acids and diesters are minimized or removed to maintain consistency.
Final Formulation:
EMPILAN EGMS is supplied as a white to off-white waxy flake or powder, with defined acid value, saponification value, and melting point.
Commercial grades are standardized to ensure compatibility with surfactant systems and reproducible pearlizing performance.
Quality Control:
Parameters such as acid value, hydroxyl value, saponification value, appearance, and solubility are tested to meet personal care industry requirements.
History of EMPILAN EGMS:
The origins of EMPILAN EGMS trace back to the mid-20th century, when the cosmetics and personal care industry began seeking multifunctional ingredients that could enhance not only the performance but also the appearance of consumer products.
Traditional soaps and cleansers lacked visual appeal, and the introduction of pearlizing agents such as ethylene glycol monostearate (EGMS) in the 1950s–1960s marked a breakthrough.
EGMS, produced through the esterification of ethylene glycol with stearic acid, provided a simple way to give shampoos, liquid soaps, and lotions a silky, pearlescent appearance, while also contributing to viscosity and foam stabilization.
By the 1970s and 1980s, pearlizing agents like EMPILAN EGMS had become widely adopted in the rapidly growing personal care markets of North America and Europe, where consumer demand for premium-looking shampoos, body washes, and lotions was accelerating.
Companies such as Albright & Wilson (later Huntsman and then Sasol, now with global specialty chemical players continuing production under various brand names including EMPILAN) commercialized standardized grades of EGMS that ensured consistent pearl effect and stability across different surfactant systems.
During the 1990s and 2000s, as globalization expanded the cosmetics market, EMPILAN EGMS became a widely exported ingredient, particularly in Asia-Pacific regions like China, India, and Southeast Asia, where rising populations and middle-class growth drove demand for affordable yet visually appealing personal care products.
EMPILAN EGMS's low toxicity, compatibility with diverse surfactants, and multifunctional properties ensured it remained a staple ingredient despite emerging alternatives.
In the modern era (2010s–present), EMPILAN EGMS continues to be a core pearlizing and opacifying agent, though the industry is increasingly focused on sustainability and green chemistry.
While EGMS is already derived in part from natural fatty acids (often palm or tallow derivatives), there is growing pressure to source from sustainable palm oil (RSPO-certified) or develop bio-based, eco-friendly variants that align with consumer expectations.
Despite challenges from natural mica-based pearlizers and newer synthetic alternatives, EMPILAN EGMS retains a strong position because of its cost-effectiveness, proven performance, and versatility.
Handling and Storage of EMPILAN EGMS:
Handling:
Avoid dust formation when handling flakes or powders.
Prevent contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact.
Handle with good industrial hygiene practices.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and strong oxidizers.
Keep containers tightly closed.
Protect from excessive heat and moisture.
Stability and Reactivity of EMPILAN EGMS:
Stability:
Stable under normal handling and storage conditions.
Reactivity:
Non-reactive in typical use; chemically inert in surfactant systems.
Incompatible Materials:
Strong oxidizing agents may cause decomposition.
Hazardous Decomposition Products:
Carbon oxides (CO, CO₂) may form on thermal decomposition or fire.
Conditions to Avoid:
Excessive heat, open flames, and strong oxidizing environments.
First Aid Measures of EMPILAN EGMS:
Inhalation:
Unlikely due to low volatility; if dust is inhaled, move to fresh air and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
Wash with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
If irritation develops, consult a physician.
Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with plenty of water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek medical attention if large quantities are ingested.
Firefighting Measures of EMPILAN EGMS:
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or water spray.
Specific Hazards:
Product is combustible; burning may produce irritating or toxic fumes (CO, CO₂).
Protective Equipment:
Firefighters should wear protective clothing and a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Accidental Release Measures of EMPILAN EGMS:
Personal Precautions:
Wear appropriate protective equipment (gloves, goggles, dust mask if handling powders).
Avoid generating dust.
Environmental Precautions:
Prevent release into drains, surface water, or soil in large amounts.
Methods for Cleaning Up:
Sweep or vacuum spilled material into suitable containers.
Wash spill area with water and detergent to remove residues.
Dispose of according to local regulations.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of EMPILAN EGMS:
Engineering Controls:
Ensure good general ventilation in processing areas.
Use dust extraction if powder handling creates airborne particles.
Respiratory Protection:
Normally not required; if dust levels exceed exposure limits, use a dust mask or respirator.
Hand Protection:
Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene recommended).
Eye Protection:
Safety glasses with side shields or chemical goggles.
Skin/Body Protection:
Protective clothing to minimize exposure.
Hygiene Measures:
Wash hands after handling.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using the product.
Remove and wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
Identifiers of EMPILAN EGMS:
Chemical Name: Ethylene Glycol Monostearate
IUPAC Name: 2-Hydroxyethyl octadecanoate
Chemical Class: Non-ionic surfactant; fatty acid ester
Molecular Formula: C₂₀H₄₀O₃
Molecular Weight: ~328.53 g/mol
CAS Number: 111-60-4
EC (EINECS) Number: 203-882-0
Appearance: White to off-white waxy flakes or powder
Odor: Mild fatty odor
Solubility: Insoluble in water; dispersible in hot surfactant systems; soluble in alcohols and oils
Melting Point: ~55–65 °C
REACH Registration: Registered in the EU for use in personal care and industrial applications
EC Number: 292- 932- 1
INCI name: Glycol Cetearate
CAS numbers: 91031-31-1
Product Name: EMPILAN EGMS
Common Name: EGMS
Chemical Name: Ethylene Glycol Monostearate
IUPAC Name: 2-Hydroxyethyl octadecanoate
Chemical Class: Non-ionic surfactant; fatty acid ester (glycol ester of stearic acid)
Molecular Formula: C₂₀H₄₀O₃
Molecular Weight: 328.53 g/mol
CAS Numbers: 111-60-4
EC (EINECS) Numbers: 203-882-0
Appearance: White to off-white waxy flakes or powder, sometimes beads
Odor: Mild fatty odor, characteristic of stearic acid derivatives
Melting Point: ~55–65 °C (depending on grade/purity)
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Density: ~0.9–1.0 g/cm³ (solid)
Properties of EMPILAN EGMS:
Chemical Name: Ethylene Glycol Monostearate
Molecular Formula: C₂₀H₄₀O₃
Molecular Weight: ~328.53 g/mol
Chemical Class: Non-ionic surfactant; fatty acid ester
Appearance: White to off-white waxy flakes, beads, or powder
Odor: Mild fatty odor (characteristic of stearic acid derivatives)
Melting Point: ~55–65 °C
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Density: ~0.9–1.0 g/cm³ (solid)
Viscosity: Not applicable in solid form; disperses to increase viscosity in surfactant systems
Flash Point: >150 °C (estimated, non-volatile waxy ester)
Solubility:
In Water: Practically insoluble in cold water; forms stable dispersions in hot aqueous surfactant systems
In Alcohols: Soluble in ethanol, isopropanol, and other lower alcohols
In Oils/Fats: Soluble in most oils and non-polar organic solvents
Appearance at 25°C: Flakes, similar to standard
Colour: White or pale yellow
Free fatty acid: 2.0% max.
Alkalinity: 0.25 ml N/10 HCl / g max.
Density at 20°C: 0.4 g/cm3
Melting point: typically 56°C
Monoester content: < 35.0%
Diester content: < 70.0%
Glycol content: < 3.0%
Product Name: EMPILAN EGMS
Chemical Name: Ethylene Glycol Monostearate
CAS Number: 111-60-4
EC Number: 203-882-0
Molecular Formula: C₂₀H₄₀O₃
Molecular Weight: 328.53 g/mol
Physical and Chemical Specifications
Appearance: White to off-white waxy flakes, beads, or powder
Odor: Mild fatty odor
Melting Point Range: 55 – 65 °C
Acid Value: Max. 5 mg KOH/g
Saponification Value: 145 – 160 mg KOH/g
Hydroxyl Value: 50 – 65 mg KOH/g
Iodine Value: Max. 3 g I₂/100 g
Moisture Content: Max. 1.0 %
Active Content: Typically ≥ 90 %
pH (1% dispersion): ~6.0 – 8.0
Other EMPILAN Products:
EMPILAN 2502
EMPILAN 2502/MB
EMPILAN EGMS
EMPILAN CME/T
EMPILAN KA 5
EMPILAN KBE 2
EMPILAN KBE 21
EMPILAN KBE 3
EMPILAN KBE 7
EMPILAN KCL
EMPILAN KCL 7/9
EMPILAN KCL 9/85
EMPILAN KCL 11
EMPILAN KCL 11/90
EMPILAN KI 6
EMPILAN KI 6.5
EMPILAN KI 8
EMPILAN KI 10
EMPILAN KM 20/FK
EMPILAN KM 25/FK
EMPILAN KM 25/PW
EMPILAN KM 50/FK
EMPILAN KM 50/PW
EMPILAN KM 80/PW
EMPILAN KR 2.5
EMPILAN KR 5
EMPILAN KR 6
EMPILAN KR 6/90
EMPILAN KR 8
EMPILAN KT 7/80
EMPILAN MAA/SI
EMPILAN ME10-CN
EMPILAN PF 7169
