Product Category: Surfactants / Detergent Raw Materials / Industrial Chemicals
Chemical Name: Cocamide DEA
Alternative Names: Coconut Diethanolamide / CDEA / CDE / Coconut Fatty Acid Diethanolamide
CAS Number: 68603-42-9
Chemical Type: Non-ionic surfactant
Appearance: Light yellow to amber viscous liquid
Product Overview
Coconut Diethanolamide, commonly referred to as CDE or Cocamide DEA, is a non-ionic surfactant manufactured from coconut-derived fatty acids and diethanolamine.
It is widely used as a foam booster, foam stabiliser, viscosity builder and emulsifying agent in detergent, cleaning and industrial formulations.
Because Cocamide DEA consists of a mixture of coconut fatty-acid diethanolamides, it is not appropriately represented by one single molecular formula.
Typical Commercial Specification
| Property | Typical Reference |
| SKU | MCS-C8 |
| Product | Cocamide DEA / CDEA |
| CAS Number | 68603-42-9 |
| Appearance | Light yellow to amber viscous liquid |
| Ionic Character | Non-ionic |
| Active Matter | Common grades approximately 77–85% |
| pH – 1% Solution | Approx. 8.5–10.5 |
| Moisture | Typical ≤1.0% |
| Density at 25°C | Approx. 1.00–1.05 g/mL |
| Function | Foam booster / viscosity builder / emulsifier |
Commercial CDEA grades vary considerably in active matter according to manufacturing ratio and grade, with approximately 77–85% being common for many detergent-grade products.
Applications
- Dishwashing liquids
- Liquid detergents
- Industrial cleaners
- Vehicle-cleaning formulations
- Shampoos and wash products where permitted and appropriately formulated
- Foam-boosting systems
- Emulsions
- Detergent concentrates
Functional Benefits
CDE can provide:
- Foam enhancement
- Improved foam stability
- Increased formulation viscosity
- Improved detergency characteristics
- Emulsification support
- Improved formulation texture and consistency
Packaging
Typically supplied in suitable industrial drums or IBC quantities.
Storage
Store sealed in a cool, dry location. Protect from excessive heat and moisture.
Product can become more viscous at lower temperatures. Gentle warming and mixing may be required according to the supplier’s technical guidance.
Regulatory Note: Suitability for personal-care and consumer formulations must be assessed against the applicable legislation and formulation requirements of the intended market.
