Castor oil polyoxyethylene ether EL-20 (CAS No.: 61791-12-6) is classified as a non-acutely toxic substance in toxicology. The oral LD50 in rats is greater than 2000 mg/kg, indicating a very low acute hazard from oral ingestion. It has only slight irritation to skin and eyes and is not classified as a corrosive or sensitizing substance. However, repeated or prolonged contact may cause degreasing and drying of the skin. Therefore, it is recommended to wear nitrile or neoprene chemical protective gloves and chemical safety goggles during industrial operations.
This product is not a hazardous material; it is non-flammable and non-explosive, making it relatively safe for storage and use at room temperature. However, under high temperature or open flame conditions, it may decompose to produce irritant fumes such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Therefore, it is still recommended to keep away from strong oxidants and open flames, and to maintain good ventilation in the working environment.
In terms of environmental impact, EL-20 may cause slight adverse effects on aquatic organisms. Leaks should be prevented from entering sewers, water sources, or low-lying areas. Waste disposal must be handled by qualified waste treatment agencies, and direct discharge into soil or water bodies is strictly prohibited. Overall, under conditions of proper use and appropriate disposal, the risk of this product to humans and the environment is controllable.
| Safety Indicator | Data |
|---|---|
| Hazard Classification | Non-hazardous material |
| Acute Toxicity (Rat Oral LD50) | > 2000 mg/kg |
| Skin Irritation | Slight irritation |
| Eye Irritation | Slight irritation |
| Skin Sensitization | Repeated contact may cause degreasing and drying |
| Flammability | Non-flammable, non-explosive |
| Thermal Decomposition Products | Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, irritant fumes |
| Environmental Hazard | May cause slight adverse effects on aquatic organisms |
| Storage Temperature | 5–35°C |
Given the low toxicity and good safety profile of EL-20, it is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products (creams, lotions, makeup removers, shampoos, etc.). The added amount in these end products is typically subject to safety assessments, making it safe and reliable for human use. In industrial applications (textile printing and dyeing, pesticide emulsification, metalworking fluids, industrial cleaning, etc.), it should be added according to formulation specifications and avoid direct long-term contact of operators with the undiluted liquid.