Isodecyl neopentanoate is a chemical compound, an esters mixture resulting from the reaction of branched-chain decyl alcohols with neopentanoic acid.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Isodecyl. Refers to a branched-chain alkyl group derived from isodecanol, a type of alcohol. It generally has 10 carbon atoms. In the context of cosmetics and personal care products, isodecyl groups are often used as part of larger compounds to provide certain properties, such as a conditioning or emollient effect on the skin.
• Neopentanoate. This is a type of carboxylate ester derived from neopentanoic acid, also known as 2,2-dimethylpropanoic acid. Neopentanoic esters are often used in cosmetics and personal care products for their skin softening and conditioning properties.

The synthesis process takes place in different steps:

• Production of isodecyl alcohol. The process begins with the production of isodecyl alcohol, which is usually derived from decene, a type of alpha-olefin, through a process called hydroformylation or oxosynthesis. This process involves the addition of a formyl group (CHO) and a hydrogen atom to the double bond of an alkene.
• Production of neopentanoic acid. Neopentanoic acid is a branched-chain carboxylic acid that can be produced by various methods, including oxidation of the corresponding alkane or alkene.
• Esterification. Isodecyl alcohol and neopentanoic acid are put into a process called esterification. In this process, the carboxyl group (COOH) of the neopentanoic acid reacts with the hydroxyl group (OH) of the isodecyl alcohol to form an ester, releasing water as a by-product. The resulting compound is isodecyl neopentanoate.

Isodecyl neopentanoate appears as a clear, colourless to pale yellow liquid.

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.

• Molecular Formula     C₁₅H₃₀O₂
• Molecular Weight    242.40 g/mol
• CAS  60209-82-7
• UNII    W60VYE24XC
• EC Number   262-108-6