G-18 Glycereth-18 (INCI name: Glycereth-18, CAS number: 31694-55-0) is a nonionic surfactant with a high HLB value (18). It appears as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid, easily soluble in water, with a cloud point above 100°C and excellent chemical stability (stable within pH 3~12). Its molecular structure features a glycerol backbone with approximately 18 EO chain segments, endowing it with superior hydrophilicity, emulsifying and solubilizing capabilities, wetting and dispersing performance, as well as certain moisturizing properties.
As a formulation additive, the usage of G-18 differs depending on the system. Due to its viscous liquid nature (kinematic viscosity 100~200 mm²/s), it is recommended to heat it to 30~40°C before addition to reduce viscosity, facilitating accurate measurement and dispersion. For aqueous systems, it can be added slowly under stirring; for oil-based systems or formulations containing oils, it is advisable to pre-dissolve it in a small amount of water before mixing with the oil phase for emulsification. The specific dosage should be determined experimentally based on the performance requirements of the target product and formulation compatibility. The following are general reference suggestions for various application areas.
| Parameter Item | Specification Value | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow transparent liquid | — |
| Ionic Type | Nonionic | Compatible with anionic/cationic/nonionic surfactants |
| HLB Value | 18 | Data source: Guoli Chemical Product Database |
| Active Content | ≥99% | High concentration product |
| pH Value (1% Aqueous Solution) | 5.0~7.0 | Near neutral, mild and non-irritating |
| Cloud Point (1% Aqueous Solution) | >100°C | Not prone to precipitation in high-temperature systems |
| Hydroxyl Value | 180~200 mgKOH/g | — |
| Acid Value | ≤0.5 mgKOH/g | — |
| Moisture Content | ≤0.5% | — |
| Density (25°C) | 1.05~1.10 g/cm³ | — |
| Kinematic Viscosity (25°C) | 100~200 mm²/s | Viscous liquid, recommend heating before use |
| Surface Tension (1% Aqueous Solution) | 35~40 mN/m | Data source: Guoli Chemical Product Database |
| Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) | Approx. 0.1~1.0 g/L (25°C) | Data source: Guoli Chemical Product Database |
| Chemical Stability | Stable within pH 3~12 | Unstable under strong acids, bases, and oxidizing agents |
| Flash Point | >150°C | Non-flammable |
Recommended dosage: 1%~5% (of total formulation weight). As an O/W emulsifier and solubilizer, it is suggested to add G-18 to the water phase under stirring before emulsification, heat to 70~75°C, then mix with the oil phase and homogenize. For fragrance solubilization, pre-mix the fragrance with G-18 in a ratio of 1:3 to 1:5, then add to the water phase and stir until clear. Suitable for creams, lotions, facial cleansers, makeup removers, and toners, enhancing product stability and skin feel.
Recommended dosage: 2%~5% (based on fabric weight) or 0.5~3 g/L (working solution concentration). As an antistatic agent and softening finishing agent, it can be directly prepared into an aqueous solution and applied to fiber surfaces via padding or immersion methods. Treat at 40~50°C for 20~30 minutes, then dry to impart smooth hand feel and antistatic effects to the fabric.
Recommended dosage: 3%~8% (of concentrate formulation weight). When preparing cutting fluids or grinding fluids, add G-18 to the aqueous concentrate and stir until dissolved, providing both lubrication and rust inhibition. Dilute to a working concentration of 5%~10% before use.
Recommended dosage: 0.2%~1% (of total formulation weight, or 5%~15% based on pigment weight). As a wetting and dispersing agent, it is recommended to add during the grinding stage, dispersing and grinding together with pigments and binders, effectively preventing pigment flocculation and sedimentation, improving storage stability and tinting strength.
Recommended dosage: 2%~6% (of concentrate formulation weight). It can be used in combination with other nonionic or anionic surfactants, added directly to water and stirred until dissolved. Suitable for hard surface cleaners and industrial degreaser formulations, enhancing wetting, penetration, and detergency.
Recommended dosage: 0.5%~2% (of total formulation weight). As a foam stabilizer component, premix uniformly into the polyol component during the foaming process to help regulate cell structure, improving foam fineness and physical uniformity.