Cocamide DEA
Non-ionic foam booster and viscosity builder from coconut oil — standard additive in shampoos, liquid soaps, and industrial cleaners.
Product Overview
Cocamide DEA (cocamide diethanolamine) is a non-ionic surfactant and foam booster produced by reacting coconut oil fatty acids with diethanolamine (DEA). It is a viscous amber liquid used at 1-3% in personal care and cleaning formulations to enhance foam volume, improve foam stability, and increase product viscosity.
Texas-Chem supplies cocamide DEA as a liquid in drums and totes. It is compatible with anionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactants, making it a versatile additive across a wide range of formulation types. It is used alongside SLES, SLS, and LAS to improve the sensory and performance profile of finished products.
Common Applications
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 68603-42-9 |
| INCI Name | Cocamide DEA |
| Active Content | ~85-90% (as supplied) |
| Appearance | Amber to dark amber viscous liquid |
| pH (10% solution) | 9.0-11.0 |
| Viscosity | 500-2,000 cP at 25°C |
| HLB Value | ~13 |
| Typical Use Level | 1-3% in formulation |
| Grade | Industrial / Technical |
| Packaging | Drums, Totes |
Safety & Documentation
Cocamide DEA is a mild irritant. Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact. Use gloves and safety glasses when handling. Contains diethanolamine — avoid contact with strong oxidizers and nitrosating agents. Review SDS before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does cocamide DEA do in a shampoo formulation?
Cocamide DEA acts as a foam booster (increases foam volume), foam stabilizer (improves foam persistence), and viscosity builder (thickens the product). It is typically used at 1-3% alongside SLES or SLS as the primary surfactant.
Is cocamide DEA the same as cocamide MEA?
No. Cocamide DEA uses diethanolamine (DEA) and is a liquid at room temperature. Cocamide MEA uses monoethanolamine (MEA) and is a solid flake at room temperature. Both are foam boosters, but cocamide DEA is more commonly used in liquid formulations due to its liquid form.
Is cocamide DEA safe in personal care products?
Cocamide DEA is approved for use in rinse-off personal care products. The main concern is potential formation of nitrosamines when combined with nitrosating agents — formulators should avoid combining cocamide DEA with nitrosating preservatives or ingredients.
What is the typical use level for cocamide DEA?
Cocamide DEA is typically used at 1-3% of the finished formulation. Higher levels can cause cloudiness or phase separation in some systems. It is most effective when added after the primary surfactant system is established.
Packaging Options
Key Properties
Delivery Info
Cocamide DEA vs. Alternatives
Cocamide DEA is the standard foam booster and viscosity builder in personal care. Here is how it compares to cocamide MEA and coco betaine.
| Attribute | Cocamide DEA | Cocamide MEA | Coco Betaine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Form | Liquid (amber) | Solid flake | Liquid (clear) |
| Primary Function | Foam boost + viscosity build | Foam boost + opacifier | Mildness + foam stabilize |
| Charge Type | Non-ionic | Non-ionic | Amphoteric |
| Typical Use Level | 1–3% | 1–3% | 2–5% |
| Relative Cost | Low–Moderate | Low–Moderate | Moderate–High |
Industries We Supply Cocamide DEA To
Personal Care Manufacturing
Cocamide DEA is a standard additive in shampoos, body washes, and liquid soaps produced by personal care manufacturers across Texas.
Cocamide DEA supply in Houston, TXHousehold Cleaning Products
Used in dish soaps and all-purpose cleaners to boost foam volume and increase product viscosity.
Cocamide DEA supply in Dallas, TXIndustrial Cleaning
Added to industrial cleaning concentrates and degreasers to improve foam stability and cleaning performance.
Cocamide DEA supply in San Antonio, TXAutomotive & Car Care
Used in car wash soaps and automotive detailing products for foam enhancement and viscosity control.
Cocamide DEA supply in Fort Worth, TX