Castor oil polyoxyethylene ether EL-12 (HLB value approx. 6.8) is a lipophilic nonionic surfactant that disperses in water rather than fully dissolving. Therefore, it is recommended to first mix it uniformly with the oil phase components, then slowly add it to the water phase under stirring, or use the phase inversion emulsification method: mix EL-12 with the oil phase first, then slowly add water with high-speed stirring to allow the system to undergo the W/O to O/W phase inversion, resulting in a finer and more stable emulsion. For solubilizing essential oils and fragrances in cosmetic formulations, pre-mix EL-12 with the oil-soluble ingredients to be solubilized in a ratio of 1:1 to 3:1, then slowly add to the water phase and stir until clear and transparent.
In pesticide emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulations, EL-12 is usually blended with other emulsifiers having higher HLB values (such as EL-40, EL-80) to achieve better emulsification and dispersion. After blending, the overall HLB value is typically adjusted to the range of 10 to 13. In metalworking fluid formulations, EL-12 acts both as an emulsifier and a lubricating component. The recommended dosage is 5% to 10% of the total concentrate. Pre-mix EL-12 with oil-soluble components such as base oil and rust inhibitor, then add water and dilute to form a stable translucent to milky white emulsion. In textile auxiliaries applications, it is recommended to add EL-12 under warm water conditions of 40 to 60°C, leveraging its enhanced surface activity above its cloud point (50 to 60°C, 1% aqueous solution) to improve leveling and penetration effects.
In industrial cleaning formulations, EL-12 is recommended to be blended with nonionic penetrants (such as penetrant JFC) and anionic surfactants, utilizing its low-foaming characteristics suitable for high-pressure spray cleaning processes. During operation, it is recommended to first mix EL-12 uniformly with other surfactants and co-solvents, then add to the main components of the formulation. For all usage scenarios, since the viscosity of EL-12 increases significantly at low temperatures, if the product becomes turbid or its fluidity decreases before winter use, preheat the packaging container in a 20 to 40°C water bath to restore fluidity before use. Do not directly heat above 80°C to avoid product decomposition and deterioration.
| Parameter Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Ion Type | Nonionic |
| HLB Value | 6.8 |
| Appearance (25°C) | Light yellow to yellow transparent oily liquid |
| Active Content | ≥99% |
| Moisture | ≤0.5% |
| Cloud Point (1% Aqueous Solution) | 50~60°C |
| Freezing Point | < -10°C |
| Density (25°C) | 1.00~1.05 g/cm³ |
| Viscosity (25°C) | Approx. 300~500 mPa·s |
| pH Value (1% Aqueous Solution) | 5.0~7.0 |
| Solubility | Easily soluble in ethanol, ether and other organic solvents, dispersible in water |
| Surface Tension (1% Aqueous Solution) | Approx. 32~35 mN/m |
| Flash Point (Open Cup) | >150°C |
| Foam Characteristics | Low foaming |
| Chemical Stability | Resistant to acid, alkali, and hard water |
Cosmetics/Personal Care: When used as a solubilizer, the recommended ratio of EL-12 to essential oils/fragrances is 1:1 to 3:1 (by weight); when used as an emulsifier for creams and lotions, the recommended dosage is 2% to 8% of the total formulation. Blending with auxiliary emulsifiers such as fatty alcohols and glyceryl monostearate yields better results.
Pesticide Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC)/Emulsion in Water (EW): The recommended dosage is 5% to 12% of the total formulation. Usually, it is blended with emulsifiers having HLB values of 10 to 15 to achieve optimal emulsion stability. The field dilution ratio is 200 to 2000 times. When diluting, first add the required amount of water to the container, then pour the emulsifiable concentrate into the water and stir, or use the secondary dilution method to ensure uniform dispersion.
Metalworking Fluids: As an emulsifying and lubricating component, the recommended dosage in the cutting fluid concentrate is 5% to 10%. For field use, dilute with water to a working concentration of 5% to 10%.
Spinning Oil Agents/Textile Auxiliaries: The recommended dosage is 2% to 5% of the total working solution. When using, it is advisable to disperse in warm water at 40 to 60°C to achieve better oiling uniformity.
Industrial Cleaning Agents: The recommended dosage is 2% to 8% of the total cleaning agent formulation. Blend with anionic and nonionic auxiliaries, suitable for medium to high temperature (40 to 70°C) cleaning processes.