Castor oil polyoxyethylene ether EL-60 (PEG-60 castor oil) is produced by ethoxylation of natural castor oil and is clearly classified by GHS as a non-hazardous substance or mixture . In terms of human safety, the acute oral toxicity test (rat) shows an LD₅₀ > 5000 mg/kg, classified as practically non-toxic ; skin irritation test (OECD 404), eye irritation test (OECD 405), and skin sensitization test (OECD 406) all gave negative results, indicating no irritation or sensitization to skin and eyes. The in vitro bacterial reverse mutation test (Ames test) was negative, indicating no germ cell mutagenicity risk. These data fully support its safe use as a solubilizer and emulsifier in personal care products (e.g., makeup removers, facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, etc.).
Regarding environmental impact, the acute fish toxicity (96h LC₅₀) of EL-60 is greater than 100 mg/L, indicating low aquatic toxicity. More critically, its biodegradability test (OECD 301B) shows BOD/COD > 60%, meeting the readily biodegradable standard, meaning the product can be rapidly decomposed by microorganisms in the environment and will not accumulate in ecosystems. This property aligns with the sustainable development requirements of modern green chemicals, resulting in minimal ecological impact in large-scale applications such as industrial emulsification, textile auxiliaries, and pesticide formulations.
Overall, castor oil polyoxyethylene ether EL-60 is a nonionic surfactant with both high safety and good environmental compatibility. Under normal use and handling conditions, it poses no significant harm to human health or the environment.
| Toxicity/Ecological Indicator | Test Method/Standard | Result | Conclusion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acute oral toxicity (rat) | OECD 401 | LD₅₀ > 5000 mg/kg | Practically non-toxic |
| Skin corrosion/irritation | OECD 404 (rabbit) | Negative | Non-irritating |
| Serious eye damage/eye irritation | OECD 405 (rabbit) | Negative | Non-irritating |
| Skin sensitization | OECD 406 (guinea pig) | Negative | Non-sensitizing |
| Germ cell mutagenicity | Ames test | Negative | Non-mutagenic |
| Acute fish toxicity (96h LC₅₀) | — | > 100 mg/L | Low toxicity |
| Biodegradability | OECD 301B | > 60% BOD/COD | Readily biodegradable |
| GHS classification | — | Non-hazardous substance | No hazard labelling required |
Based on the excellent safety profile of EL-60, it is recommended for priority use in the following scenarios:
Although EL-60 has high safety, it is still recommended to follow basic chemical handling practices: use in well-ventilated areas, wear chemical safety goggles and protective gloves; avoid prolonged or repeated direct contact; wash hands thoroughly after handling; keep containers tightly closed during storage, away from strong oxidizing agents, at ambient temperatures not exceeding 40°C, and protected from direct sunlight. In case of eye contact, immediately flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; if irritation persists, seek medical attention. Dispose of waste in accordance with local chemical waste regulations; do not discharge into drains or surface waters.