Analysis of Alkylphenol Ethoxylates (APEO)

Alkylphenols are organic compounds belonging to the class of synthetic-non-ionic surfactants widely used in the production of detergents, adhesives, cosmetics, emulsifiers and household cleaning agents. Global consumption of alkylphenols is around 600 kilotonnes per year, making them ubiquitous in the environment and human tissues. Human urine levels of alkylphenols have been estimated at approximately 12 ng/mL. The negative effects of alkylphenols on the nervous and immune systems of humans are known.

Alkylphenols are organic industrial chemicals used in the production of lubricating oil additives, laundry and dishwashing detergents, emulsifiers and solvents. They are also found in personal care products, particularly hair products, and as an active ingredient in various detergents and some pesticide formulations. Exposure to these compounds occurs through the skin, air, and water.

Unlike most exogenous chemicals, which generally become less toxic by degradation, alkylphenols increase their toxicity over time. During biodegradation, alkylphenol polyethoxylates lose their ethoxy groups to become alkylphenols, which are more stable, persistent and hydrophobic, causing them to accumulate in sewers and rivers and enter the ambient air.

Many alkylphenols are toxic to aquatic organisms, and the most toxic are those with a large alkyl chain. Alkylphenols are attracting attention due to their prevalence in the environment. Exposure to nonylphenol and octylphenol has been proven to cause testicular damage, reduced testicular size, decreased sperm production and quality, and dysfunction of the male reproductive system.

Ethoxylation is the process of reacting ethylene oxide with other chemicals to make it less harsh. This process can leave residual ethylene oxide in the product. Shampoos, liquid soaps, bath foams, and hair conditioners commonly contain ethoxylates. Ethoxylated ingredients are of low concern on their own, but the ethoxylation process can leave behind trace amounts of carcinogens. Ethylene oxide is a man-made chemical primarily used to make ethylene glycol and sometimes used in hospitals to sterilize medical equipment and supplies.

Our organization also provides alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEO) analysis services with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment, among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors.