Alcohol Denat. (SDA 40-B) (Ethanol (perfumer's alcohol)) - solvent, antimicrobial, fragrance, viscosity modifier

INCI Name

Alcohol Denat. (SDA ...

Functions

4 Roles

Sustainability

7/10

What It Does

Alcohol Denat. SDA 40-B is ethanol denatured according to the US SDA (Specially Denatured Alcohol) Formula 40-B, which uses denatonium benzoate as the bittering agent to prevent ingestion, making it tax-exempt for cosmetic use. It is the industry-standard carrier alcohol in fine fragrance and eau de cologne formulations, prized for its exceptionally clean, neutral odor profile that does not interfere with the top notes of a perfume composition. Formulators choose SDA 40-B specifically for its regulatory compliance in the US market, rapid evaporation rate, and its ability to solubilize a wide range of aromatic and active compounds while imparting a characteristic cooling sensation on the skin.

Dissolves active ingredients

Enables proper formulation

Affects product penetration

Controls evaporation rate

Technical Properties

pH Range

6.0-8.0

Optimal working range

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

thinning

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

low

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

fragrance materialsnonionic surfactantsmost preservativesfilm formerswater-soluble activessilicones

Avoid Combining

strong oxidizing agentsstrong acidsstrong basescertain natural gums and thickeners at high concentrations

Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

7/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

plant-derived

Feedstock

Typically derived from fermentation of sugarcane, corn, or wheat; SDA 40-B is denatured with denatonium benzoate and/or other approved denaturants to render it unfit for consumption while preserving cosmetic utility