Question

Thickener 6000DS, Thickener 638, PEG-150: How to store? What is the shelf life?

Answer
2026-06-06 官方文档 增稠剂6000DS,增稠剂638,PEG-150

Thickener 6000DS, Thickener 638, and PEG-150 should all be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated environment in sealed containers. The shelf life for unopened products is two years (from the date of production).

Detailed Explanation

Thickener 6000DS (white to off-white powder) and Thickener 638 (slightly yellow transparent liquid) are both non-ionic thickeners of the PEG-150 distearate series. During storage, the products should be placed in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse, away from moisture, rain, and direct sunlight. It is recommended to place the containers on pallets, keeping them at an appropriate distance from the floor to prevent the influence of ground moisture.

Temperature control is key to storage: the recommended storage temperature should not exceed 45°C, the relative humidity should be below 70%, and drastic temperature fluctuations should be avoided. For the powdered Thickener 6000DS, temperature fluctuations may cause the product to absorb moisture and form lumps, affecting its performance. For the liquid Thickener 638, precautions should be taken to prevent viscosity changes and color deepening caused by high temperatures. If the product is not fully used after opening the bag or drum, it must be resealed tightly to prevent moisture or impurities from entering.

The products should be kept away from incompatible substances such as strong acids, strong bases, and active oxidizing agents to avoid harmful reactions. Handle with care during transportation, avoiding damage to the packaging. Although these products are not flammable, the fine dust of the powder product (6000DS) may accumulate in the air and form a combustible dust cloud when mixed with air. Therefore, the storage area should be kept away from open flames, heat sources, and strong oxidizing agents.

Storage Technical Parameters

ParameterThickener 6000DSThickener 638
AppearanceWhite to off-white powderSlightly yellow transparent liquid
Recommended Storage Temperature≤45℃≤45℃
Recommended Relative Humidity≤70%≤70%
Sealing RequirementStrictly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and lumpingAirtight to prevent evaporation and contamination
Special ProtectionPrevent dust; keep away from open flamesPrevent leakage; avoid freezing
Shelf Life (unopened)Two yearsTwo years
Storage EnvironmentCool, dry, ventilated warehouseCool, dry, ventilated warehouse
Incompatible SubstancesStrong acids, strong bases, active oxidizing agentsStrong acids, strong bases, active oxidizing agents

Application Recommendations

In practical use, Thickener 6000DS, due to its powder form, is more suitable for formulation processes that require precise metering. It is recommended to pre-disperse it in a small amount of formula water before adding it to the production system. Thickener 638, in liquid form, has better dispersibility and is especially suitable for cold blending processes. It can be directly added to the system while stirring. Before use, both products should be checked for normal appearance. For the powder, check for severe caking; for the liquid, check for layering or abnormal sedimentation. If any abnormality is found, conduct a small-scale evaluation before deciding whether to use.

Precautions

  • When handling the powder product (6000DS), it is recommended to wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling fine dust. When handling the liquid product (638), take care to prevent splashing.
  • Although the products are non-toxic and non-flammable, decomposition at high temperatures may produce irritating fumes. Keep away from continuous high-temperature sources.
  • Once opened, the product should be used as soon as possible. If stored for an extended period, re-evaluate product performance before use.
  • Transport under general chemical conditions, avoiding direct sunlight and rain. In winter, take anti-freeze measures for the liquid product (638).
  • If leakage occurs, sweep up the powder with dust-proof tools for collection, and treat the liquid with inert absorbent materials to prevent the material from entering drains or water bodies.