Phenoxyethanol (Preservative)

Product Name: Phenoxyethanol

Green Code: 2 Manufactured in USA

INCI Phenoxyethanol
CAS Number(s) 122-99-6 EINECS:204-589-7
Usage Rate:
approved to a maximum concentration of 1%
Appearance Colorless liquid.
Odour Characteristic
pH 7B
oiling point approx. 245 °C at 1013 hPa
Melting point approx. 13 °C
Flashpoint approx. 120 °C
Specific Gravity approx. 1,11 g/ml at 20 °C
Solubility in water in water: approx. 24 g/l at 20 °CAssay 95%
MinWater 0.1%
MaxPhenol 5 ppm
MaxEthylene Oxide 1 ppm
MaxChemistry: Phenoxyethanol is the product of the reaction of 1mole of ethylene oxide and 1mole of phenol.

Description:

Paraben and Formaldehyde free Cosmetic Preservative with an excellent low toxicity profile, and non-sensitizing, an aromatic ether sometimes referred to as Rose Ether. It is a good general bactericide (most active against gram negative bacteria) but a weak fungicide and is generally used in combination with other preservatives. We recommend combining it with Potassium Sorbate to a more efficient coverage.

Phenoxyethanol can be inactivated by highly ethoxylated compounds. In surfactant preparations the water needs to be saturated with it (add to water and mix well before adding other ingredients).

There are no pH restrictions in formulating with phenxoyethanol and, it is not inactivated by any ingredients or raw materials used in the personal care industry. It is easily added directly to a formulation either during pre- or post-emulsification at or below 80°C (176°F).

Even though phenoxyethanol is found in products and listed as a natural preservative for the most part it is synthetic.

Hazard Identification Non Hazardous

Extinguishing Media Dry chemical, CO2, foam.
Risks Arising from Combustion Noxious Fumes.
Protective Equipment Self contained breathing apparatus.
Conditions to avoid Extreme heat.
Materials to avoid Strong oxidizersHazardous decomposition products Stable under normal conditions.

Blogger note: If you would like more information about this perservative, check out this link http://www.truthinaging.com/2008/06/fda-warning-on-phenoxyethanol.html. This article also includes the safety of this particular perservative.

Source: http://www.diycosmetics.com/products/Phenoxyethanol-78-26.html