In what fields is OA-12 used?

OA-12 (Lauramine Oxide) is a versatile amphoteric surfactant valued for its mildness, foam stability, and pH adaptability. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its applications across industries:

1. Personal Care & Cosmetics

Shampoos/Body Washes:

Reduces irritation from harsh surfactants (e.g., SLES/SLS) while boosting foam.

Example: Baby shampoos (pH 5.5–7.0) where eye safety is critical.

Facial Cleansers:

Gentle on sensitive skin, often paired with amino acid surfactants.

Oral Care:

Foaming agent in toothpaste/mouthwash (compatible with fluoride).

Why? Low irritation (Draize score <1), non-sensitizing, and biodegradable.

2. Household & Industrial Cleaning

Dish Liquids/Laundry Detergents:

Enhances grease cutting and foam stability in hard water.

Surface Cleaners:

Used in disinfectant wipes (compatible with quaternary ammonium compounds).

Car Washes:

High-foaming, prevents water spotting.

Why? Tolerates high electrolytes (salt, hardness ions) and wide pH ranges.

3. Oilfield Applications

Foam Drilling/Fracturing:

Stable foam in high-salinity (>10% NaCl) and high-temperature (>80°C) wells.

Example: Foam-assisted lift in low-pressure reservoirs.

Corrosion Inhibition:

Adsorbs on metal surfaces, reducing acid-induced corrosion.

Why? Thermal stability (up to 200°C) and salt tolerance.

4. Textile & Paper Industries

Textile Processing:

Leveling agent for dyes; anti-static for synthetic fibers.

Paper Manufacturing:

Deinking agent in recycled paper production.

Why? Improves wetting and reduces fiber damage.

5. Agriculture & Pesticides

Adjuvant in Herbicides/Fungicides:

Enhances spray droplet spread and leaf adhesion.

Why? Low phytotoxicity and compatibility with agrochemicals.

6. Other Niche Uses

Pet Care: Mild pet shampoos (non-irritating to animal skin).

Biotech: Cell lysis buffer component (gentler than SDS).

Key Advantages Driving Use:

Property Benefit Industry Example

Mildness Safe for sensitive skin/babies Personal care

Salt Tolerance Works in seawater/high-mineral environments Oilfield, household cleaners

Thermal Stability Withstands steam/boiling conditions Industrial cleaners, oilfield

Foam Stability Rich lather even with oils present Car washes, shampoos

Regulatory Notes

Approvals: EU CosIng, FDA 21 CFR §172.710, China INCI.

Eco-Profile: Readily biodegradable (OECD 301), low aquatic toxicity.

For specific formulations (e.g., sulfate-free shampoos or high-TDS oilfield fluids), OA-12’s concentration typically ranges 0.5–5%. Need optimization tips for a particular application? Ask away!