Question

How to use Hydrogenated Castor Oil Polyoxyethylene Ether HEL-40? What is the recommended dosage?

Answer
2026-06-06 官方文档 氢化蓖麻油聚氧乙烯醚HEL-40

The usage and dosage of HEL-40 vary depending on the application scenario. When used as a solubilizer, it is usually pre-mixed with fragrance/active ingredients and then slowly added with water. When used as an emulsifier, the hot process method is often adopted (oil phase and water phase are separately heated to 70-75°C and then mixed and homogenized).

Recommended dosage by application scenario

The recommended dosage of Hydrogenated Castor Oil Polyoxyethylene Ether HEL-40 depends on the specific application function. The following are typical recommended ranges for various fields (data are industry general recommendations; the specific dosage should be determined through formulation trials):

Application FieldFunctional RoleTypical Dosage (wt%)
Cosmetic creams/lotionsO/W emulsifier1.0% – 5.0%
Makeup remover oil/waterEmulsifier, solubilizer3.0% – 10.0%
Transparent aqueous products (toner, spray)Fragrance/essential oil solubilizer2 – 5 times the amount of fragrance (typically 0.5% – 2.0% in formulation)
Facial cleanser/shower gelFatliquoring agent, superfatting agent0.5% – 2.0%
Textile leveling agentLeveling, softening0.5% – 2.0% (based on fabric weight)
Metalworking fluid (cutting fluid concentrate)Emulsifier, lubricant5.0% – 20.0% (in concentrate)
Hard surface cleanerSurfactant, degreasing aid1.0% – 5.0%
Pesticide emulsifiable concentrate/microemulsionEmulsifying dispersant5.0% – 15.0%

General usage methods and steps

As a solubilizer (transparent aqueous system): Premix HEL-40 with the fragrance, essential oil, or oil-soluble active ingredient to be solubilized in a ratio (usually 2-5 times the amount of the fragrance) and stir until homogeneous to form a transparent uniform mixture. Then, under slow stirring, gradually add this mixture into the water phase. Continue stirring to obtain a transparent and stable aqueous system. If cloudiness occurs, it indicates insufficient solubilizer; add more HEL-40 until the system becomes clear.

As an O/W emulsifier (cream, lotion systems): Use a hot process. Add HEL-40 to the oil phase and heat together with the oil components to 70-75°C; simultaneously heat the water phase ingredients to the same temperature. Under high-speed homogenization or stirring, slowly add the water phase into the oil phase (or vice versa). Homogenize for 3-5 minutes, then cool to room temperature while stirring to form a fine and stable emulsion. With an HLB value of 13-15, HEL-40 is suitable for use alone as an O/W emulsifier or can be combined with low-HLB emulsifiers to broaden formulation compatibility.

As a component in industrial auxiliary formulations: In industrial formulations such as metalworking fluids, cleaners, and pesticide preparations, HEL-40 can be directly mixed with other components at room temperature or under mild heating. The order of addition is usually prior to the water phase or mixing with the base oil. The product may appear pasty below 5°C; it is recommended to warm it in a 15-35°C environment or gently heat to restore fluidity before use. This product has good compatibility with anionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactants, offering high formulation flexibility.

Technical parameters (Source: Guoli Chemical Product Database)

Parameter ItemSpecification Value
AppearanceLight yellow to yellow transparent liquid or paste
Ionic TypeNonionic
HLB Value13 – 15
Active Content≥99.0%
Cloud Point (1% aqueous solution)>100°C
pH Value (1% aqueous solution)5.0 – 7.0
Hydroxyl Value60 – 75 mgKOH/g
Melting Point23 – 25°C
Moisture Content≤1.0%
Viscosity (25°C)500 – 1000 mPa·s
Density1.04 – 1.06 g/cm³
Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC)Approx. 20 mg/L
Surface Tension (0.1% aqueous solution)30 – 35 mN/m
Iodine Value≤2.0
CAS Number61788-85-0

Usage precautions

  • Preheating recommendation: The product melting point is 23-25°C. In low-temperature environments, it may appear pasty or semi-solid. It is recommended to warm it to 25-35°C before use for easy pouring and accurate dosing. Do not heat with an open flame.
  • Order of addition: When used as a solubilizer, always premix HEL-40 with essential oil/fragrance first, then slowly add water. If the fragrance is directly added to water followed by HEL-40, the solubilization effect will be significantly worse.
  • Dosage adjustment principle: The amount of HEL-40 required for solubilization is closely related to the polarity and molecular structure of the substance to be solubilized. For fragrances, 2-5 times the amount is typical; some poorly soluble substances may require a higher ratio. It is recommended to determine the optimal ratio through stepwise testing.
  • Safety protection: The product is classified as practically non-toxic, but it may cause mild eye irritation. When weighing and adding, it is recommended to wear protective goggles and gloves. Wash hands after operation.
  • Storage requirements: Store at 5-35°C, keep sealed and protected from light, avoid storing with strong oxidizers. The product is hygroscopic; after opening, use promptly and reseal.