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In the ever-evolving formulation landscape of personal care cosmetics, finding the perfect balance between performance, skin mildness, and regulatory compliance is a major challenge. Coconut Methyl Monoethanolamide (CMMEA), specifically Cocamide Methyl MEA under CAS 866889-75-0, represents a breakthrough in non-ionic surfactant chemistry. With an active concentration of 86%, this high-purity thickener serves as a replacement for traditional diethanolamine (DEA) derivatives like Cocamide DEA.
Standard alkanolamides like Cocamide DEA have faced scrutiny due to concerns over secondary amines. These can react with nitrosating agents to form carcinogenic nitrosamines, which are restricted under California Proposition 65 and European Union cosmetics regulations. CMMEA avoids this risk due to its unique methyl-capped molecular structure. This structure prevents the formation of secondary amines while delivering superior rheology modification and foam stabilization in anionic/amphoteric systems.
Unlike Cocamide DEA, CMMEA contains no secondary amines, complying with strict regulatory frameworks in the EU, USA, and East Asia.
CMMEA remains a liquid at room temperature (pour point down to -12°C). This allows for cold-mix processing, saving energy in manufacturing.
Demonstrates excellent viscosity-building performance when paired with primary anionic surfactants like SLES and amino acid-based cleansers.
High-purity CMMEA 86% is manufactured via the amidation of coconut-derived fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) with N-methyl monoethanolamine. The resulting surfactant provides rapid thickening at lower dosages than Cocamide DEA or Cocamide MEA.
| Chemical Property / Parameter | Guaranteed Specification (CMMEA 86%) | Testing Method Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Cocamide Methyl MEA (Coconut Methyl Monoethanolamide) | IUPAC Nomenclature |
| CAS Registry Number | 866889-75-0 | Chemical Abstracts Service |
| Active Matter Content (%) | ≥ 86.0% | Ethanol Extraction Method |
| Free Amine Content (%) | ≤ 1.0% | Acid-Base Titration |
| pH Value (10% aqueous solution) | 9.0 – 10.5 | pH Electrode Meter |
| Appearance (at 25°C) | Light yellow to amber transparent liquid | Visual Inspection |
| Free Glycerin (%) | ≤ 10.0% | Gas Chromatography (GC) |
| Methanol Residue (ppm) | ≤ 100 ppm | Headspace GC-MS |
CMMEA's primary function in rinse-off applications is the optimization of micellar structures. When introduced into a surfactant system containing Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) or Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS), CMMEA inserts its hydrophobic tail into the core of the micelles. The methyl group on the nitrogen atom alters headgroup spacing, reducing electrostatic repulsion among anionic surfactants. This shifts the micelle shape from spherical to elongated, worm-like structures, increasing the solution's viscosity.
CMMEA forms a cohesive, elastic film at the air-water interface. This increases bubble wall elasticity, resulting in a denser, creamier foam that resists drainage, even in the presence of sebum.
Formulations thickened with CMMEA show minimal viscosity changes across temperature shifts (5°C to 40°C). This ensures that shampoos and body washes maintain consistent flow properties across seasons.
Traditional alkanolamides struggle to thicken mild amino acid surfactants. CMMEA offers reliable viscosity response when formulated with Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate or Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate.
The global demand for personal care products is shifting toward safer, milder, and more environmentally friendly ingredients. Brands in the EU and North America are actively replacing Cocamide DEA with alternatives like Cocamide Methyl MEA. In Asian markets, including China, Japan, and South Korea, CMMEA has become a standard ingredient in premium baby care, anti-dandruff shampoos, and facial cleansers.
CMMEA's compatibility with global cosmetic standards makes it a versatile choice for multinational manufacturers. Because it is highly concentrated (86% active), it reduces shipping volumes, packaging waste, and carbon emissions per metric ton compared to lower-concentration liquid alternatives.
CMMEA's high solubility and non-ionic nature allow it to be easily integrated into a wide range of formulations. It remains fully stable across a broad pH range (5.0 to 11.0), making it suitable for both acidic skin-cleansing products and alkaline soap-based formulations.
Designed for baby skin, this formula uses mild amino acid surfactants. CMMEA provides thick, creamy foam stability and gentle viscosity without causing irritation.
Active anti-dandruff agents like Zinc Pyrithione (ZPT) or Climbazole require stable suspension polymers. CMMEA acts as a co-suspension aid by strengthening the micellar network.
CMMEA prevents skin tightness by reducing the aggressive degreasing effect of primary anionic surfactants, leaving a smooth, hydrated feel after rinsing.
As a reliable manufacturer and supplier, Suzhou Yuantairun Chemical Co., Ltd. (YTR) maintains advanced chemical production facilities that ensure consistent product quality. Our CMMEA 86% is produced using highly automated synthesis processes that control reaction temperature, pressure, and catalyst ratios to keep residual raw materials (such as free amine and methanol) to a minimum.
Our factory is located near major domestic ports, including Shanghai and Ningbo. This proximity enables efficient shipping to customers worldwide. We maintain ISO9001:2015 Quality Management certifications, and our products comply with international regulatory standards, including REACH, TSCA, and IECSC.
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The future of rinse-off cosmetics lies in ingredients that are biodegradable and derived from renewable sources. Our research focuses on increasing the bio-based content of CMMEA 86% by sourcing 100% RSPO-certified palm oil and coconut oil.
Furthermore, our development team is working on synergistic combinations of CMMEA with biosaccharide-based thickeners, helping formulators create entirely natural personal care products without compromising on viscosity or foam volume.
Common questions from cosmetic chemists, formulations researchers, and chemical procurement managers.
A1: CMMEA 86% shows higher thickening efficiency compared to Cocamide DEA, especially in SLES/CAPB surfactant systems. Formulators can typically reduce the thickening agent concentration by 15% to 25% while maintaining the target viscosity, resulting in lower raw material costs.
A2: Yes. Unlike Cocamide MEA, which is a solid flakes material requiring heating to 60-70°C to melt, CMMEA is a liquid at room temperature with a pour point of -12°C. It can be added directly to formulations at room temperature, helping to reduce energy use during production.
A3: Yes, CMMEA is highly compatible with sensitive skin formulations. It does not contain secondary amines, eliminating the risk of nitrosamine formation. It has passed multiple dermatological assessments showing low skin irritation and sensitization potential.
A4: The standard shelf life of CMMEA 86% is 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored in its original, unopened packaging. We recommend storing it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
A5: CMMEA works synergistically with inorganic salts (such as Sodium Chloride) to build viscosity. It helps stabilize the system, preventing viscosity drops or phase separation when salts are added to adjust thickness.
Uses SLES and AOS as core surfactants for cleaning. Pair with CMMEA to stabilize viscosity and build thick foam without irritating the skin.
Features Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate and Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate. Formulated with CMMEA to produce a fine, easy-to-rinse foam while retaining moisture.
Combines amphoteric CAB-35 and non-ionic APG1214 with CMMEA. This combination creates a rich lather, suitable for baby care and sensitive skin products.
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