What are Cocamide DEA/CDEA, 6501-80%, and Ninol? What are their main uses?

Cocamide DEA (6501-80%, Ninol) is a nonionic surfactant synthesized from natural coconut oil, known as the "thickening and foam-stabilizing expert" in cleaning formulations. It is widely used in personal care, household cleaning, textiles, metal processing, and many other industries.

Detailed Description

Cocamide DEA (CAS No.: 68603-42-9), also known as coconut diethanolamide, Ninol, or 6501 type, appears as a transparent viscous liquid ranging from light yellow to amber. It is a classic alkanolamide nonionic surfactant that acts as a "synergist" in surfactant blends — its performance alone is not outstanding, but when combined with other anionic surfactants (such as AES, LAS), it produces significant synergistic effects, earning it the title of "golden partner" in cleaning formulations.

The core functions of this product can be summarized into four major characteristics: Exceptional thickening — effectively increases system viscosity, especially in synergistic thickening with other surfactants; Excellent foam stabilization — significantly improves foam fineness and durability, unaffected by hard water; Strong emulsifying and dispersing power — effectively emulsifies and suspends various oils and waxes, preventing redeposition of dirt; Resistance to alkali and hard water — maintains excellent performance stability under high alkalinity and hard water conditions without forming calcium soap precipitates. The free diethanolamine content in the product is controlled (usually less than 5%), making it safe and reliable under normal usage conditions.

Main Uses

Cocamide DEA has an extremely wide range of applications. The following is a classification of its main uses:

Application Recommendations

• Recommended Dosage: In typical cleaning formulations, the suggested addition amount of 6501-80% is 1%~5% (by total formula weight). The specific dosage should be optimized based on target viscosity and foam requirements.
• Blending Recommendations: When combined with anionic surfactants such as AES (sodium alcohol ether sulfate) and LAS (sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate), the thickening and foam-stabilizing effects are most pronounced. A recommended ratio of 6501 to AES is between 1:3 and 1:6.
• Process Tips: It is recommended to add the product while the system is heated to 40~60°C, stirring until completely dissolved and dispersed. Due to its high viscosity, pre-warming the product in winter may facilitate handling.
• pH Range: It maintains good stability within pH 5 to 12, making it particularly suitable for alkaline formulations.

Precautions

• This product contains diethanolamine (DEA). GHS hazard classification: Skin irritation (Category 2), Serious eye irritation (Category 2), Suspected of causing cancer (Category 2). Wear chemical protective gloves and goggles during operation, and ensure adequate ventilation.
• Do not use or store under nitrosating conditions (e.g., coexistence with nitrites in an acidic environment) to avoid the formation of potentially carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds.
• Recommended storage temperature: 5°C to 40°C, in a sealed, light-protected container, away from strong oxidizers and strong acids. Avoid prolonged heating above 120°C.
• The product is readily biodegradable (OECD 301B degradation rate >90%) and has low toxicity to aquatic organisms. However, prevent direct discharge of cleaning waste liquid into water bodies.
• For more safety information, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In case of skin or eye contact, immediately rinse with plenty of water and seek medical advice.