C13-14 isoparaffin is a chemical compound, branched chain of hydrocarbons, obtained from crude oil by various chemical processes including hydrodeoxygenation-hydroisomerisation a catalytic process that converts normal paraffin into isoparaffin. The numbers refer to the carbon atoms in the alkyl chain.

The name describes the structure of the molecule

• C13-14 - This indicates that the hydrocarbons in this blend have chains ranging in length between 13 and 14 carbon atoms.
• Isoparaffin - Refers to branched paraffins, or paraffinic hydrocarbons that do not follow a straight-chain structure.

Description of raw materials used in production

• Petroleum feedstocks - C13-14 isoparaffin is typically produced from petroleum through a fractional distillation process.

Synthesis process

• Fractional distillation - Crude petroleum is subjected to fractional distillation to separate out the various components based on their boiling points.
• Hydrotreating - This process removes impurities and converts hydrocarbons into a more saturated form.
• Deasphalting and solvent extraction - These processes further separate the desired components from impurities and heavier products.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss.  Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.

Solvent. It is the substance for dissolving or dispersing surfactants, oils, dyes, flavourings, bactericidal preservatives in solution.In fact, it dissolves other components present in a cosmetic formulation. Solvents are generally liquid (aqueous and non-aqueous).

Applications

Ingredient in Emulsions - Due to its properties, it can be used in emulsions (like creams and lotions) to give the product a light, silky texture.

Component in Gels and Serums - Often used in gel and serum formulations to provide a smooth, non-tacky finish.

Opacifying Agents - Can be used to make cosmetic products opaque or reduce their transparency.

Industrial Applications - Outside of the cosmetics industry, it might be used as a solvent or fluid in various industrial applications.

Safety

As with any ingredient, especially those derived from petroleum, it's essential to ensure that products containing C13-14 Isoparaffin are properly formulated to be safe for their intended use. It's also important to consider potential environmental impacts related to the use and disposal of petroleum-derived products.

Trade name:Isopar M, Isopar N Fluid

CAS: 246538-79-4