Question

How to use castor oil polyoxyethylene ether EL-10?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 蓖麻油聚氧乙烯醚EL-10

The usage method of castor oil polyoxyethylene ether EL-10 varies depending on the application field. It is typically used as a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsifier or wetting dispersant, directly added to the oil phase and stirred evenly. The recommended dosage is generally 1% to 10% of the total system weight.

Detailed Description

Castor oil polyoxyethylene ether EL-10 is a nonionic surfactant, appearing as a light yellow to yellow transparent oily liquid, with excellent W/O (water-in-oil) emulsifying ability. The core principle of its usage is: First, add EL-10 to the oil phase to fully dissolve or disperse it evenly, then mix and emulsify with the water phase. Due to the strong lipophilicity of EL-10 (low HLB value), dissolving it in the oil phase yields the best effect, effectively reducing interfacial tension and stabilizing the emulsion structure.

In different application scenarios, the dosage and specific operation methods vary. For example, in pesticide emulsifiable concentrates, the dosage is usually high (5%~10%); in cosmetic creams, it generally accounts for 2%~6% of the oil phase; in industrial cleaning agents, only 1%~3% is needed to provide auxiliary emulsification and penetration effects. It is recommended that users determine the optimal dosage through small-scale experiments based on the specific formulation system.

Application Suggestions

Pesticide Emulsifiable Concentrate Formulation

Add EL-10 at 5%~10% of the total formulation weight into the mixed oil phase of the technical material and solvent, stir until completely dissolved and uniform, then slowly add water to dilute and form a stable emulsion. It can be used in combination with anionic emulsifiers (e.g., Agricultural Emulsifier 500#) to significantly enhance emulsion stability and the spreading and penetrating ability of the spray liquid.

Cosmetic W/O Creams and Lotions

Add EL-10 at 2%~6% of the oil phase weight into the oil phase (such as mineral oil, silicone oil, oils, etc.), heat to 70~80°C and stir to dissolve, then slowly add the water phase into the oil phase for homogenization and emulsification. After cooling, a fine and stable W/O cream or lotion is obtained. Suitable for products such as cold creams, sunscreens, and massage creams.

Textile Oil and Smoothing Agents

Mix EL-10 at 3%~8% of the total oil agent weight with other smoothing components (such as white oil, fatty acid esters, etc.), stir evenly, and directly apply in the oiling process of synthetic fiber spinning to impart good smoothness and cohesion to the fibers, reducing breakage and fuzz.

Leather Fatliquoring Agent

Mix EL-10 at 5%~15% of the total fatliquor weight with natural or synthetic oils, add in emulsion form to the drum during the fatliquoring process to help the oil penetrate into the leather fiber, making the leather soft and full. It is recommended to control the fatliquoring temperature at 50~60°C to facilitate penetration.

Metalworking Fluids

In emulsified cutting fluids or grinding fluid formulations, the recommended addition amount of EL-10 is 3%~8%. Add it together with base oil, rust inhibitors, extreme pressure additives, etc., into the oil phase, stir evenly, then dilute with water to form the working fluid, providing both emulsification and lubrication functions.

Pigment Dispersion in Coatings and Inks

As a pigment wetting dispersant, the recommended dosage is 2%~5% of the pigment mass. Add EL-10 to the grinding base material, promoting the wetting and deagglomeration of pigment particles during the grinding process, reducing system viscosity, and improving color strength and storage stability.

Industrial Hard Surface Cleaners

Add at 1%~3% of the total formulation weight, compounded with alkaline builders, chelating agents, and other surfactants. EL-10 can be mixed with other nonionic surfactants in the formulation first, then added to the water phase and stirred evenly. It has excellent emulsifying and solubilizing ability for mineral oil and grease stains.

Technical Parameters

Parameter NameParameter Value
AppearanceLight yellow to yellow transparent oily liquid
Product TypeNonionic surfactant
Emulsion SystemW/O (water-in-oil) type
Acid and Alkali ResistanceGood, stable under complex pH conditions
Hard Water ResistanceExcellent
Flash Point>150°C

Precautions

  • Addition Method: EL-10 should be added to the oil phase first and stirred evenly. Do not add it directly to a large amount of water and then mix with oil, as this will significantly reduce emulsification efficiency.
  • Temperature Control: The viscosity of the product increases at low temperatures. It can be preheated to 30~40°C before use for easier operation and measurement, but long-term storage should avoid exceeding 40°C to prevent product deterioration or stratification.
  • Combined Use: EL-10 is compatible with anionic, cationic, and other nonionic surfactants. When used in combination, it is recommended to conduct small-scale compatibility tests first.
  • Personal Protection: During operation, wear chemical safety goggles and chemical-resistant gloves, use in a well-ventilated area, and avoid prolonged direct skin contact.
  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, keep the container tightly sealed to prevent moisture, and avoid direct sunlight. The recommended storage temperature is 0°C to 40°C.
  • Dosage Optimization: The above recommended dosages are reference ranges. The actual optimal dosage is greatly affected by other components in the formulation. It is recommended to determine the most suitable addition ratio for your own formulation through gradient experiments.