COCAMIDOPROPYLAMINE OXIDE – DEFINITION AND PROPERTIES
What is Cocamidopropylamine Oxide?
Cocamidopropylamine Oxide is a mild, amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut fatty acids. It acts as a foaming booster, viscosity enhancer, foam stabilizer, and secondary surfactant in many personal care and home care formulations.
It is widely used due to its excellent mildness, high foam volume, and cleaning efficiency.
Physical & Chemical Properties
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Chemical Type: Amphoteric surfactant (amine oxide)
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Appearance: Clear to pale yellow liquid
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Active Matter: Typically 30%
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pH: 6.0 – 8.0 (as supplied)
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Solubility: Fully soluble in water
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Foaming: High, stable foam even in hard water
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Mildness: Very mild to skin and eyes
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Ionic Character: Amphoteric
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Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
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Compatibility:
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Excellent with anionic surfactants (e.g., SLES)
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Excellent with nonionic surfactants
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Compatible with cationics in certain pH ranges
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Hard Water Stability: Very good
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Salt Tolerance: Moderate to good
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Viscosity Contribution: Enhances viscosity when used with anionics
Functional Properties
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Foam booster
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Foam stabilizer
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Wetting agent
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Degreasing power enhancer
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Mild cleansing agent
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Thickening synergist with SLES/SLS
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Conditioning effect in personal care formulas
Applications
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Shampoo & hair cleansers
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Body wash and shower gels
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Liquid hand soaps
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Baby wash formulas
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Dishwashing liquids
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All-purpose household cleaners
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Car wash shampoos
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Industrial cleaners (mild–medium strength)
