Question

How to use Emulsifier FM, triethanolamine monooleate?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 乳化剂FM_三乙醇胺单油酸酯

The usage method of emulsifier FM (triethanolamine monooleate) needs to be flexibly adjusted according to specific application fields, with the core being "pre-dissolution and dispersion" and "metered addition".

Detailed Description

Emulsifier FM is a non-ionic surfactant with excellent performance, appearing as a viscous liquid at room temperature. To ensure it disperses more evenly in the formulation system and achieves optimal results, it is recommended to preheat or pre-dissolve it before use. The product can be heated to 30~40°C to reduce viscosity, or premixed with the oil phase or some hot water from the formula before being added to the main system. This helps avoid issues such as gel formation or uneven dispersion caused by local high concentration.

As a general operating guideline, when preparing water-based emulsions such as metalworking fluids or textile auxiliaries, emulsifier FM is typically thoroughly mixed with base oils (e.g., mineral oil) to form an oil phase. Then, under stirring, the water phase is slowly added to the oil phase, or vice versa, the oil phase is added to the water phase. Leveraging its easy solubility in water, it quickly forms a stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion. Throughout the process, moderate mechanical stirring (e.g., using a high-speed disperser) can significantly enhance the fineness and stability of the emulsion, with a recommended stirring time of 15~30 minutes.

Technical Parameters

Parameter ItemSpecification/Typical ValueDescription
AppearanceLight yellow to brownish yellow oily liquidViscous
Ionic TypeNon-ionicCompatible with various ionic surfactants
HLB ValueApproximately 12Suitable for preparing oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions
Active Matter Content≥99%High effective content
pH of 1% Aqueous Solution5.0~9.0Weakly acidic to weakly alkaline
Cloud Point>100°CStable performance at high temperatures
Density0.95~1.05 g/cm³Close to water
SolubilityReadily soluble in waterForms a stable transparent or translucent solution
Foaming PropertiesLow foamingSuitable for circulation systems
Storage Temperature5~35°CAvoid freezing or overheating

Application Recommendations

Metalworking Fluids: As an emulsifier and rust inhibitor, the recommended addition amount is 3%~8% of the total formula. Mix emulsifier FM evenly with base oil and rust inhibitor to form the oil phase, then add water while stirring to produce a stable emulsified oil concentrate, which can be diluted with water to working concentration during use.

Personal Care Products: For creams and shampoos, the recommended addition amount is 1%~5%. After heating and dissolving the oil phase, mix it with the preheated water phase and homogenize to provide a fine cream texture and a refreshing skin feel, along with some emollient and thickening effects.

Textile Auxiliaries: When preparing softeners or antistatic agents, the recommended addition amount is 5%~15%. Utilizing its good water solubility, directly mix with hot water and stir to obtain a transparent functional finishing liquid, giving the fabric a smooth and soft hand feel.

Industrial Cleaning: In degreasers, the addition amount is 2%~10%. Compounded with alkaline additives, chelating agents, etc., it can effectively emulsify and remove oil stains from surfaces, and when combined with heating and circulation cleaning, it achieves higher efficiency.

Pesticide Formulations: Used as an emulsifying dispersant in emulsifiable concentrates (EC) or oil-in-water emulsions (EW), the typical dosage is 5%~12%. After dissolving the technical material, add emulsifier FM until completely miscible; its HLB value of approximately 12 ensures spontaneous emulsification upon dilution, resulting in a uniform and stable spray solution.

Emulsion Polymerization: As the primary emulsifier, the dosage is 1%~4% of the total monomer. Before adding to the reactor, completely dissolve emulsifier FM in the water phase to effectively stabilize monomer droplets and precisely control the particle size and distribution of the latex particles.

Precautions

According to the product safety data of Guoli Chemical, this product is classified as Skin Sensitizer Category 1 and may cause skin allergic reactions. The following requirements must be strictly adhered to during handling:

  • Personal Protection: Wear qualified protective gloves (e.g., nitrile rubber gloves), protective clothing, and safety goggles, avoiding any form of direct skin contact.
  • Ventilation: Ensure operation in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any possible vapors or mists.
  • Emergency Response: In case of skin contact, immediately wash with plenty of soap and water; if it gets into eyes, open the eyelids and rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
  • Storage: Keep the container tightly closed, store in a cool (5~35°C), dry place away from strong oxidizing agents, and prevent the product from absorbing moisture, freezing, or deteriorating.