Castor oil polyoxyethylene ether EL-80 is a nonionic surfactant synthesized by the condensation of natural castor oil with ethylene oxide. Its flash point is above 150°C (closed cup method), and it is not classified as a flammable liquid, allowing transportation under general chemical conditions. Under normal industrial use conditions, the product poses a low risk to human health, but basic safety operating procedures should still be followed.
From a toxicological perspective, the product itself is not a highly toxic or acutely toxic substance. However, direct contact with the concentrated product or prolonged exposure to its oil mist or aerosol may cause some irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. The product exhibits low acute toxicity but should not be ingested or allowed to enter open wounds.
Regarding the environment, the product demonstrates good biodegradability in rapid biodegradation tests such as OECD 301B, with a degradation rate of over 70% in 28 days, classifying it as a ultimately biodegradable substance. It has low acute toxicity to aquatic organisms (48-hour EC50 for Daphnia magna > 100 mg/L), but direct discharge of untreated product into water bodies, soil, or drainage systems should be strictly avoided to prevent short-term ecological impacts from localized high concentrations.
| Exposure Route | Potential Effects | First Aid Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Skin contact | May cause mild irritation or defatting; repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin dryness | Immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash skin thoroughly with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation or rash occurs. |
| Eye contact | May cause eye irritation, redness, discomfort | Rinse gently with plenty of running water or saline for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids; do not rub; if irritation persists, seek immediate ophthalmological treatment. |
| Inhalation | Oil mist from heating or agitation may irritate the respiratory tract | Move the affected person to fresh air immediately and keep the airway clear; if discomfort occurs, seek medical attention immediately. |
| Ingestion | May cause gastrointestinal discomfort | Rinse mouth with water; do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention immediately and show the product container or label. |
| Ecological Indicator | Data/Assessment | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Biodegradability | Degradation rate ≥70% in 28 days (OECD 301B) | Classified as ultimately biodegradable; not prone to long-term accumulation in the environment. |
| Aquatic toxicity (Daphnia magna) | 48-hour EC50 > 100 mg/L | Low acute aquatic toxicity; classified as low-toxicity level. |
| Bioaccumulation potential | Expected to be low | High molecular weight and water solubility; not prone to bioaccumulation in organisms. |
| Environmental discharge recommendations | Prohibition of direct discharge | Must not be discharged into water bodies, soil, or drainage systems without treatment; waste disposal must comply with local regulations. |
To ensure personal safety and environmental compliance, the following operating practices are recommended for industrial use: maintain good ventilation in the work area to avoid generation of aerosols or sprays; wear nitrile rubber gloves (thickness ≥0.11 mm) and chemical safety goggles during operation; add face shield if there is a risk of splashing, and wear chemical-resistant protective clothing. Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited in the workplace. Thoroughly wash hands and any exposed skin after operation.
For storage, keep the product in a cool (recommended 5–35°C), dry, and well-ventilated warehouse, keep the container tightly sealed, and keep away from strong oxidizers, strong acids, strong bases, and other incompatible substances. The product is hygroscopic; reseal the container as soon as possible after opening. Under unopened conditions, the shelf life is 24 months from the date of manufacture.