Emulsifier A-103 (oleic acid polyoxyethylene ester, CAS No.: 9004-96-0) is a nonionic surfactant, appearing as a light yellow liquid to paste, with an HLB value of 11.5, readily soluble in water. Although its toxicity is low, according to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), this product is classified as Skin Irritant Category 2 (H315) and Serious Eye Irritant Category 2 (H319), and is also determined to be harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects Category 3 (H412). Therefore, strict personal protection and environmental risk management must be implemented throughout the entire operation process.
From a chemical stability perspective, this product is structurally stable under neutral and mild conditions, but prone to hydrolysis in strong acid or strong alkaline media, leading to ester bond cleavage and a significant decrease in emulsifying performance. Therefore, during formulation design and use, direct contact or prolonged coexistence with strong acids (such as concentrated sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid) or strong bases (such as concentrated sodium hydroxide solution) should be avoided. Additionally, the product has a freezing point below -10°C; cloudiness or pasting may occur at low temperatures, which is a normal physical change. Simply warm it back to 5–35°C and stir evenly before use to restore original performance. Do not heat with an open flame.
As an ester-type nonionic surfactant, Emulsifier A-103 contains unsaturated fatty acid chains (iodine value 40–60 g I₂/100g). Prolonged exposure to air or high temperatures may cause oxidative deterioration. It is recommended to use promptly after opening, and storage containers must be kept tightly sealed. Its flash point is >150°C; although it is not a flammable liquid, it may release irritating fumes under fire conditions. Firefighters must wear self-contained positive pressure breathing apparatus for disposal.
| Precaution Category | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) | Wear chemical safety goggles, impermeable gloves (such as nitrile rubber gloves), and appropriate protective clothing; use respiratory protection equipment if necessary |
| Operating Environment | Well-ventilated area, maintain local exhaust or general ventilation to prevent accumulation of mists |
| Operational Discipline | No eating, drinking, or smoking; thoroughly wash hands and exposed skin after contact |
| Storage Temperature | 5–35°C, avoid freezing or overheating |
| Incompatible Substances | Keep away from strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases |
| Container Management | Immediately seal after use to prevent moisture ingress and leakage |
| Environmental Protection | Strictly prohibit direct discharge of waste liquid into sewers, surface water, or soil; collect leaked material with inert absorbents (sand, vermiculite) and dispose of as hazardous waste |
In various application fields, this product should be used appropriately according to the pH conditions of the system: