Soap and Detergents
18 June 2025
Palm-based chemicals have taken center stage in the development of next-generation surfactant systems. Among them, Palm Kernel Diethanolamide (PKDEA) also commonly referred to as Coconut Diethanolamide (CDEA) is a high-performance, multifunctional nonionic surfactant derived from palm kernel oil. Known for its foam-enhancing, viscosity-modifying, and mildness-preserving properties, PKDEA is used globally in the formulation of both household and personal care cleaners.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to utilize PKDEA in modern cleaner formulations, covering its functionality, formulation strategy, sourcing considerations, and performance behavior, with a focus on both technical efficacy and sustainability.
Palm Kernel Diethanolamide is produced through a condensation reaction between fatty acids from palm kernel oil and diethanolamine (DEA). The resulting compound is a viscous, pale-yellow liquid that acts as a nonionic secondary surfactant, compatible with anionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactant systems.
Chemically, it falls into the group of alkanolamides and is often labeled as CDEA (Cocamide DEA) in commercial markets. It typically contains 85 - 90% active content, with very low levels of free amine and moisture, making it suitable for use in sensitive formulations like hand washes and baby shampoos.
One of the strongest attributes of PKDEA is its multifunctionality, allowing it to serve several purposes within a single formulation.
Foam Enhancement and Stabilization
In both personal care and industrial formulations, foam quality matters not only for sensory appeal but also for practical cleaning performance. PKDEA increases initial foam volume and stabilizes it over time, particularly when used in conjunction with anionic surfactants such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). This synergistic effect is critical in dishwashing liquids, car shampoos, and body washes. PKDEA also improves foaming behavior under hard water conditions, where anionic surfactants alone may underperform.
Viscosity Modifier (Thickener)
PKDEA serves as an effective viscosity builder, especially in systems that would otherwise require expensive thickeners like xanthan gum or cellulose derivatives. When added in small percentages (usually between 1–3%), it interacts with anionic surfactants to significantly increase product thickness without compromising clarity or stability. This property is especially useful in formulating clear gel cleansers, dishwashing liquids, and degreasing sprays, where uniform viscosity is expected.
Emulsifier and Solubilizer
PKDEA helps solubilize oils, fragrances, and oily actives within aqueous systems. This property is advantageous in personal care applications such as shower gels, liquid hand soap, and floor cleaners with natural oils, where aesthetic and performance stability are both important. The ability to emulsify or stabilize nonpolar ingredients within a water-based medium simplifies product design and eliminates the need for multiple emulsifiers.
Mildness and Conditioning Agent
PKDEA is also known to provide a mild and moisturizing skin feel. Although it's not a direct skin-conditioning agent, its presence reduces the harshness of anionic surfactants, making it beneficial in formulations intended for frequent use (like hand soap or shampoo). This is supported by studies showing reduced trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) when PKDEA is used in surfactant blends.
The process of incorporating PKDEA into a cleaner formulation involves precise attention to sequence, pH, and concentration:
Pre-dilution: It’s best to first dilute PKDEA in a portion of the formulation water (ideally warm at ~40°C) before adding it to the primary surfactant blend. This ensures smooth integration.
Surfactant compatibility: Add PKDEA after the primary anionic surfactants to avoid premature thickening. Common combinations include SLES + PKDEA or LAS + PKDEA.
Oil phase integration: For formulations with essential oils or perfume oils, add PKDEA before oils to act as a natural solubilizer/emulsifier.
Final pH adjustment: PKDEA functions best between pH 6.5 to 9. Beyond this range, stability and performance may drop.
Additives and preservatives: PKDEA is compatible with most preservatives and can be used alongside chelating agents and antimicrobial boosters.
Here’s a breakdown of specific product categories where PKDEA offers exceptional utility:
Dishwashing Liquids: Boosts foam stability, improves viscosity without adding salt.
Shampoos and Body Washes: Provides silky feel and dense foam; enhances mildness.
Hand Soaps (Liquid): Adds viscosity and emollience while stabilizing foam.
Car Wash and Engine Cleaners: High foam and degreasing capability, with enhanced surface wetting.
Industrial Floor Cleaners: Improved emulsification of oily soil and fragrance load.
One of the key advantages of palm kernel diethanolamide is its origin from renewable plant oils. Most commercial products today use palm kernel oil from RSPO-certified plantations to meet global sustainability criteria. Moreover, PKDEA is readily biodegradable under OECD guidelines and exhibits low aquatic toxicity, making it a favorable option in formulations targeting eco-labels and green certifications.
In formulation testing, adding just 2% PKDEA to a typical SLES-based shampoo significantly increases foam height and viscosity. Foam stability is extended from 30 seconds to more than a minute, while overall product texture becomes richer and smoother. In hard water tests, formulations with PKDEA show minimal foam loss and better rinse performance compared to those without it. This makes PKDEA not only cost-effective but a strategic enhancer for multi-condition product stability and performance.
Major producers and exporters of PKDEA include:
KLK OLEO (Malaysia): produces high-purity grades under PALMOCOL PDA series
HUNKA (Malaysia): offers CDE90 for industrial and personal care
Sugest (Saudi Arabia): offers eco-compliant grades with high bio-content
Kao Chemicals: produces AMIDET B PK for high-end personal care and cosmetic use
PKDEA is usually supplied in drums, IBCs, or bulk flexitanks, with documentation such as MSDS, COA, and RSPO certification provided upon request.
Palm Kernel Diethanolamide has evolved from being a basic foam booster to a multifunctional and sustainable surfactant enhancer. Its role in modern cleaner formulations spans performance improvement, cost efficiency, and regulatory compliance. As consumer demand shifts toward plant-based, mild, and high-foam products, PKDEA remains a go-to secondary surfactant for formulators worldwide. By understanding its chemistry, role, and integration strategy, manufacturers can unlock new levels of product differentiation and sustainability. To learn more about sourcing sustainable Palm Kernel Diethanolamide solutions like PALMOCOL PDA or AMIDET B PK for your formulations, contact us here for expert support and supply options.
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