Question

In which industries and processes is Emulsifier A-110, Polyoxyethylene Oleate, OEO-110 primarily used?

Answer

Emulsifier A-110 is widely applied in six major industries including textiles, cosmetics, pesticides, metalworking, industrial cleaning, and emulsion polymerization, with core functions covering emulsification, wetting, dispersion, solubilization, and lubrication.

Detailed Description

Emulsifier A-110 (Polyoxyethylene Oleate/OEO-110) is a nonionic surfactant with natural oleic acid as the hydrophobic group and polyoxyethylene as the hydrophilic group. At room temperature, it appears as a light yellow to yellow transparent oily liquid. With a moderate hydrophilic chain length, it exhibits excellent emulsification efficiency and system adaptability in the construction of O/W emulsions, while also possessing multiple functions such as wetting, dispersion, solubilization, lubrication, and antistatic properties.

The unique advantage of this product lies in its broad chemical tolerance—it maintains structural stability in acidic, alkaline, and hard water conditions without precipitation or stratification, and can be compounded with anionic, cationic, nonionic, and amphoteric surfactants in any ratio for synergistic effects. Additionally, its low foaming tendency makes it particularly effective in circulating systems and spraying processes, making it an indispensable core additive in many industrial formulations.

Application Areas and Process Details

IndustrySpecific Application ProcessesFunctional Role
Textile IndustryWool lubricating oil, spinning oil agents, pretreatment auxiliariesProvides emulsification, wetting, and antistatic properties, imparting good cohesion and smoothness to fibers, reducing friction and breakage during carding and spinning, and improving tow collectability
Cosmetics and Personal CareCreams, lotions, makeup removers, etc., in O/W systemsActs as a mild oil-in-water emulsifier and solubilizer, stabilizing the emulsion system, solubilizing fragrances and active ingredients, and imparting a light skin feel to the product
Pesticide FormulationsEmulsifiable concentrates (EC), oil-in-water emulsions (EW), microemulsions (ME)Efficiently emulsifies various organic solvents and active ingredients, ensuring dilution stability of the spray solution, improving spreading and penetration on target surfaces, and enhancing efficacy
Metalworking FluidsCutting fluids, grinding fluids, rust-preventive emulsified oilsProvides emulsion stability and lubricating extreme pressure performance, effectively cooling and protecting, extending tool life, and improving workpiece surface finish
Industrial CleanersHard surface cleaning, metal parts degreasing, spray and immersion cleaningStrong detergency, degreasing, and dispersion capabilities, with significant removal effects on mineral oils and animal/vegetable oils, low foaming, and easy rinsing
Emulsion PolymerizationPolymerization processes for acrylate, styrene-acrylic, and similar systemsParticipates in the polymerization process as a reactive emulsifier, improving the mechanical and electrolyte stability of the emulsion, and enhancing the adhesion, water resistance, and film-forming properties of the polymer

Application Recommendations

In formulation design, Emulsifier A-110 is recommended as the primary emulsifier, typically used at 5%–15% of the total oil phase. The specific ratio can be optimized based on the desired emulsion droplet size and stability. For complex formulation systems, it can be compounded with short-chain alcohols or anionic surfactants to further reduce interfacial tension and improve emulsion fineness.

In pesticide emulsifiable concentrate formulations, it is recommended to use it in combination with nonionic/anionic blended emulsifiers to achieve better dilution stability and field spreading performance. In metalworking fluids, it can simultaneously fulfill both emulsifying and lubricating functions, reducing the need for additional lubricant additives and simplifying the formulation structure.

Safety and Handling Precautions

  • Acute oral toxicity is extremely low (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg), classified as practically non-toxic, but it is still recommended to wear nitrile gloves and safety goggles during operation.
  • Mild irritation to skin and eyes; rinse immediately with plenty of water if contact occurs.
  • Recommended storage temperature between 5°C and 35°C, avoiding freezing or high temperatures that may cause product deterioration.
  • Biodegradable, but do not dispose of directly into drains or the environment; follow local environmental regulations and arrange disposal through qualified agencies.
  • Classified as non-hazardous goods, with relaxed transportation conditions, but containers must be kept sealed and avoid transporting with strong oxidizers.