G-18 glycerol polyoxyethylene ether (polyoxyethyl glycerol ether) is a nonionic surfactant. According to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), its hazard categories are skin corrosion/irritation Category 2 (H315) and serious eye damage/eye irritation Category 2A (H319). This means the product is not highly toxic or corrosive, but direct contact may cause discomfort such as skin redness and itching, and splashes into the eyes can lead to severe eye irritation symptoms. Therefore, in daily operations, it should be treated as an industrial chemical requiring regulated management, and protective measures must not be overlooked.
From a chemical stability perspective, this product maintains stable performance in acidic, alkaline, and hard water environments and is not prone to decomposition producing toxic gases. However, under high-temperature or open flame conditions, polyoxyethylene ether substances pose a risk of thermal decomposition, potentially releasing irritating gases. Therefore, during storage and use, it should be kept away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames, and the operating area should be well-ventilated to avoid inhalation of vapors, mists, or dust.
In case of accidental contact, first aid measures are crucial: Eye contact should be immediately flushed with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, holding the eyelids open to ensure thorough rinsing, and seek medical attention as soon as possible; Skin contact requires removing contaminated clothing and washing with plenty of soap and water; Inhalation of discomfort should be moved to fresh air; Ingestion should not induce vomiting, but rinse the mouth and drink plenty of water, then seek medical attention. In case of leakage, use inert absorbent materials (such as sand, vermiculite) to absorb, collect in closed containers and dispose of as hazardous waste, avoiding discharge into water bodies or soil.
| Hazard Category | GHS Classification | Hazard Code | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin corrosion/irritation | Category 2 | H315 | Causes skin irritation |
| Serious eye damage/eye irritation | Category 2A | H319 | Causes serious eye irritation |
| Flammability | — | — | Product is not flammable, but thermal decomposition may produce irritating gases |
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Protective gloves (recommended nitrile or neoprene material), protective goggles/face shield, and appropriate protective clothing must be worn during handling. After operation, thoroughly wash hands and any exposed skin areas. Eating, drinking, or smoking is prohibited in the workplace.
Storage Conditions: It is recommended to store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated dedicated warehouse, with temperature controlled between 5°C and 30°C, avoiding freezing and high temperatures. Keep containers tightly closed and store separately from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, acids, and alkalis. Empty containers may retain hazardous residues and must not be disposed of arbitrarily without thorough cleaning.
Special Precautions for Application Scenarios: In all application fields (cosmetic ingredients, textile auxiliaries, metalworking fluids, coating dispersants, industrial cleaning, polyurethane foam, etc.), the above general safety specifications must be followed. Especially during open mixing or heating operations, ventilation should be enhanced and protection levels upgraded to prevent aerosols or vapors from contacting eyes and respiratory tract.