Question

What are the storage conditions for Castor Oil Polyoxyethylene Ether EL-12?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 蓖麻油聚氧乙烯醚EL-12

Castor Oil Polyoxyethylene Ether EL-12 should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, with temperature controlled at 5-40°C, container sealed, and kept away from strong oxidizers, strong acids, strong bases, and other incompatible substances.

Detailed Description

Castor Oil Polyoxyethylene Ether EL-12 is a nonionic surfactant. Although its chemical properties are relatively stable, correct storage conditions are crucial for maintaining product quality and performance. This product is produced by ethoxylation of natural castor oil. Under improper storage conditions, quality issues such as moisture absorption, degradation, or stratification may occur.

Special attention should be paid to keeping the container sealed to avoid contact with moisture and humidity, preventing moisture absorption. Although the product appears as an oily liquid, the polyoxyethylene chain segments in its molecular structure have a certain hygroscopicity. Prolonged exposure to humid air may cause an increase in water content, affecting the accuracy of subsequent formulation use. At the same time, extreme high temperatures or freezing environments should be avoided. Excessive temperatures may accelerate product oxidation and discoloration, while low temperatures (below 5°C) may cause turbidity or precipitation. Although most cases can be restored by warming up, repeated freeze-thaw cycles may adversely affect emulsion stability.

For container material selection, it is recommended to use corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel, polyethylene, or plastic-lined iron drums for storage and transportation, avoiding long-term storage in ordinary carbon steel containers. The product is managed as a non-hazardous item, but general chemical storage regulations must still be followed, avoiding long-term outdoor storage and preventing rain and sun exposure.

Storage Conditions Summary

Storage FactorSpecific Requirement
Environmental ConditionsCool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse
Temperature Range5-40°C, avoid extreme heat or freezing
Container SealingKeep sealed to prevent moisture and humidity ingress
Incompatible SubstancesKeep away from strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases
Recommended Container MaterialStainless steel, polyethylene, plastic-lined iron drums
Protection RequirementsAvoid outdoor storage, prevent rain and sun exposure
Transport ClassificationTransport and store as non-hazardous goods

Application Recommendations

It is recommended to establish a first-in-first-out inventory management system in the warehouse, regularly check container sealing and product appearance. If the product shows significant color darkening (turning dark brown), off-odor, or stratification, small-scale tests should be performed before use to confirm whether performance meets formulation requirements. For opened packages, use them as soon as possible or seal them under nitrogen to reduce contact with moisture and oxygen in the air.

Precautions

  • The product may become turbid or develop precipitation at low temperatures. This is a physical change. It can generally return to normal after warming to room temperature and stirring evenly, but repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided.
  • In case of a small spill, use inert absorbent materials (such as sand, vermiculite) to adsorb and collect. For large spills, dike to contain, preventing entry into drains or water bodies.
  • The storage area should be equipped with standard fire-fighting equipment. Although the product is not flammable, it may decompose at high temperatures to produce irritating fumes.