Alkyl Polyglucosides: An emerging class of sugar surfactants

Abstract

Natural origin, dermal tolerability and biodegradability are the fundamental criteria for novel surfactants. Sugar-based surfactants represent a growing market. Among these, Alkyl Polyglucosides (APGs), produced from vegetable oils and starch, are in demand. They are claimed to possess advantages over other classes of surfactants in terms of dermatological and ocular safety, biodegradability, wettability, foam production, and cleaning ability. Studies show that there is no environmental risk even where APGs are used in large quantities. Some APGs have been granted the status of pharmaceutical excipients. Nevertheless, it remains a challenge to persuade some formulators to replace low-cost conventional surfactants with these alternatives. This volume aims to provide a concise compendium of current knowledge on APGs.