The usage method of Castor Oil Polyoxyethylene Ether EL-90 varies by application field. It is typically added directly to the aqueous or oil phase as an emulsifier or solubilizer. The recommended dosage is generally 1%~15% of the total formula, with the specific amount determined by experiments based on system properties and emulsification goals.
Detailed Explanation
Castor Oil Polyoxyethylene Ether EL-90 (PEG-90 Castor Oil) is a nonionic surfactant with a high HLB value (16-17). It is easily soluble in water and appears as a light yellow to yellow paste at room temperature. Its melting point is approximately 35~40°C, so it may solidify or become viscous under low-temperature conditions. Before use, if the product solidifies due to low temperature, it should be slowly melted and stirred evenly using indirect heating methods (e.g., a warm water bath). Direct flame heating of the container is strictly prohibited. Melting does not affect product performance.
As an O/W type emulsifier, EL-90 can be directly added to the aqueous phase with stirring, followed by the oil phase for emulsification. Alternatively, depending on process requirements, it can be mixed with the oil phase first, then water is added for phase inversion emulsification. Due to its excellent chemical stability, it maintains good performance across a wide pH range and in systems containing electrolytes or hard water, offering flexible feeding sequences.
Application Recommendations
The specific usage and recommended dosage (based on total formula mass) of EL-90 in different industries are as follows:
- Industrial Emulsification and Emulsion Polymerization: As the primary emulsifier, the general dosage is 2%~6% of the monomer or oil phase mass. It can be dissolved in water, then added to the monomer for pre-emulsification, or directly participate in the polymerization reaction, providing excellent emulsion stability and narrow particle size distribution.
- Pesticide Formulations (Emulsifiable Concentrate/Microemulsion/Emulsion in Water): As a key emulsifying and dispersing component, the conventional dosage is 5%~15% of the total formulation. Better results are achieved when used in combination with other anionic emulsifiers (e.g., calcium salts), significantly improving the dispersion uniformity and field efficacy of the active pesticide ingredients.
- Synthetic Fiber Oils and Textile Auxiliaries: In synthetic fiber oil formulations, EL-90 serves as a component of smoothing and bundling agents, with a recommended dosage of 5%~15% of the total oil agent. When used in textile pre-treatment or finishing auxiliaries, the dosage in the working solution is typically 0.5~2 g/L, enhancing penetration and leveling effects.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: As a mild emulsifying solubilizer, the common dosage in creams, lotions, shampoos, etc., is 1%~5%. It can be added during the heating of the aqueous phase to help uniformly disperse active ingredients and fragrances, improving skin feel. Due to its low foaming and non-irritating properties to the skin, it is especially suitable for sensitive skin formulations.
- Metalworking Fluids: In emulsified cutting fluid or grinding fluid formulations, EL-90 not only acts as an emulsifier but also provides synergistic lubrication and anti-rust effects. The dosage in the concentrate is typically 5%~15%, and the effective concentration significantly decreases after dilution into the working solution.
- Leather Auxiliaries: In leather degreasing and fatliquoring processes, EL-90 helps uniform absorption of oils and dyes, imparting a soft hand feel to the leather. Its dosage depends on the processing stage and oil content, generally ranging from 2%~8% of the active substance mass in the fatliquor or treatment bath.
(Note: The above dosages are general recommendations based on product characteristics and industry experience. Since the base formulations in various application systems vary widely, the optimal dosage must be determined through laboratory small-scale trials and pilot production. The database currently does not include precise dosage data for specific formulations.)
Precautions
- Feeding and Dissolution: EL-90 is readily soluble in water. Directly add it to the aqueous phase and stir to disperse and dissolve. To accelerate dissolution, use warm water at 40~50°C with stirring. Avoid direct mixing or storage with strong acids, strong bases, or strong oxidizers.
- Low-Temperature Handling: In winter or under low-temperature storage, the product may solidify into a paste, which is a normal physical phenomenon. Before use, soften it by heating in a warm water bath, stir evenly once it becomes flowable; this does not affect performance. Direct flame heating is strictly prohibited.
- Personal Protection: Although EL-90 is a low-toxicity substance with very low skin and eye irritation, it is recommended to wear nitrile gloves and chemical safety goggles during operation, and maintain ventilation in the workplace. Wash hands with soap and water after operation.
- Storage Conditions: It is recommended to store sealed in a cool, dry warehouse at 5°C~40°C, using containers made of stainless steel, HDPE, or PP. Follow the "first-in, first-out" principle for rotation to maintain optimal application performance.
