ethoxylate 1

Ethoxylates are a type of surfactant, or surface active agent, that are used as emulsifiers, dispersants, wetting agents, detergents, and solubilizers. They are created through a process of chemical reaction between fatty acids and ethylene oxide, which causes the fatty acids to become hydrophilic, or water-soluble. Ethoxylates are used in a variety of industrial, consumer, and personal hygiene products to help the products last longer and perform better. In consumer products, ethoxylates are used to improve the texture, lather, and foam of shampoos, toothpastes, soaps, cosmetics, and detergents. In industrial applications, ethoxylates are used in paints, glues, and lubricants.