Section 1 - CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION

PRODUCT NAME

LAURYLDIMETHYLBETAINE

NFPA

PRODUCT USE

Amphoteric surfactants (zwitterionic substances) have dual functional groups (both acidic
and basic groups) in the same molecule. They are polar solvents that have a high
solubility in water but a poor solubility in most organic solvents. They are electrically
neutral but carries positive and negative charges on different atoms in an aqueous
solution. Depending on the composition and conditions of pH value, the substances can have
anionic or cationic properties. In the presence of acids, they will accept the hydrogen
ions but they will donate hydrogen ions to the solution in the presence of bases, which
balances the pH. Such actions make buffer solutions which resist change to the pH. In the
detergency ability amphoteric surfactants which change their charge according to the pH of
the solution affects properties of foaming, wetting and detergency through a surface
action that exerts both hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties. In biochemistry amphoteric
surfactant is used as a detergent for purifying, cleansing and antimicrobial effects.
Alkylbetaines and aminoxides are amphoteric surfactants. A high foaming amphoteric
surfactant that is functional in both industrial and household formulations as well as
hair and body care products under both acid and alkaline pH condition. Can be used as
surfactant for cosmetics and toiletries, especially for mild shampoos, foam baths, bath
products, 2 in 1 formulations. Is biodegradable and exhibits modest conditioning action

SYNONYMS

C16-H33-N-O2, C16-H33-N-O2, "dodecyl betaine", "lauryl betaine", "1-dodecanaminium, N-
(carboxymethyl)-N, N-dimethyl-, hydroxide, inner salt", "1-dodecanaminium, N-
(carboxymethyl)-N, N-dimethyl-, hydroxide, inner salt", "quaternary ammonium compound",
"carboxymethyl dimethyldodecylammonium hydroxide", "carboxymethyl dodecyldimethylammonium
hydroxide", "amphoteric surfactant", cocobetaine

Section 2 - HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

CANADIAN WHMIS SYMBOLS

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW

RISK

Irritating to eyes and skin.
Harmful to aquatic organisms.

POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS

ACUTE HEALTH EFFECTS

SWALLOWED

  The material has NOT been classified as "harmful by ingestion". This is because of the lack of corroborating animal or human evidence. The material may still be damaging to the health of the individual, following ingestion, especially where pre-existing organ (e.g. liver, kidney) damage is evident. Present definitions of harmful or toxic substances are generally based on doses producing mortality (death) rather than those producing morbidity (disease, ill-health). Gastrointestinal tract discomfort may produce nausea and vomiting. In an occupational setting however, unintentional ingestion is not thought to be cause for concern.  

EYE

  There is evidence that material may produce eye irritation in some persons and produce eye damage 24 hours or more after instillation. Severe inflammation may be expected with pain. There may be damage to the cornea. Unless treatment is prompt and adequate there may be permanent loss of vision. Conjunctivitis can occur following repeated exposure.  

SKIN

  The material may cause moderate inflammation of the skin either following direct contact or after a delay of some time. Repeated exposure can cause contact dermatitis which is characterized by redness, swelling and blistering.  Skin contact is not thought to have harmful health effects, however the material may still produce health damage following entry through wounds, lesions or abrasions.  Entry into the blood-stream, through, for example, cuts, abrasions or lesions, may produce systemic injury with harmful effects. Examine the skin prior to the use of the material and ensure that any external damage is suitably protected.  Zwitterionic (amphoteric) surfactants appear to decrease skin barrier function to some extent. It has been suggested that these surfactants (typically betaines and sulfobetaines) may solubilise stratum corneum lipids. Studies confirm that dermal LD50s of certain substances may be reduced in the presence of these surfactants. (Ridout et al; Sciences Vol 16 pp 41-50 - 1990).  

INHALED

  The material can cause respiratory irritation in some persons. The body's response to such irritation can cause further lung damage.  Not normally a hazard due to non-volatile nature of product.  The material has NOT been classified as "harmful by inhalation". This is because of the lack of corroborating animal or human evidence. In the absence of such evidence, care should nevertheless be taken to ensure exposure is kept to a minimum and that suitable control measures be used, in an occupational setting to control vapors, fumes and aerosols.  

CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS

  Long-term exposure to respiratory irritants may result in disease of the airways involving difficult breathing and related systemic problems.  Limited evidence suggests that repeated or long-term occupational exposure may produce cumulative health effects involving organs or biochemical systems.