Question

Usage method of OP-21 octylphenol polyoxyethylene ether?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 OP-21辛基酚聚氧乙烯醚

The use of OP-21 octylphenol polyoxyethylene ether needs to be flexibly adjusted according to different application scenarios, with the core being full dissolution and dispersion and precise dosage control.

Detailed Description

OP-21 is a white to light yellow paste or solid at room temperature (melting point about 45~50°C). Therefore, it is usually necessary to first warm it with warm water or heat it to give it a certain fluidity before feeding. As a nonionic surfactant with a high HLB value (16), it is highly soluble in water and is commonly used as an emulsifier, penetrant, or dispersant in most systems. It is recommended to slowly add it to the formulation in the form of a diluted solution under stirring conditions to ensure uniform dispersion and optimal performance.

Reference dosages vary across different industries: as a penetrant/scouring agent in textile printing and dyeing, the recommended dosage is usually 1~5 g/L (working solution concentration); in pesticide emulsifiable concentrate formulations, as an emulsifier, it typically accounts for 5%~15% of the total formula; for metal cleaning or hard surface cleaning, it is recommended to prepare a 0.5%~2% working solution; as a wetting dispersant in paint color pastes, the recommended dosage is 1%~5% of the pigment weight. The above recommended dosages are based on typical physical property data from the Guoli Chemical database. In actual use, optimization should be determined through experiments based on specific formulations and working conditions.

Technical Parameters

Parameter ItemValue
AppearanceWhite to light yellow paste or solid
Ion TypeNonionic
HLB Value16
Active Content≥99%
pH of 1% Aqueous Solution (25°C)5.0~7.0
Cloud Point≥100°C
Melting PointAbout 45~50°C
Solubility in WaterEasily soluble in water
Surface Tension (25°C)About 32 mN/m (Source: Guoli Chemical Product Database)

Application Suggestions

Pretreatment and Dissolution: Before use, the packaging drum can be placed in a warm room or heated with a water bath (≤60°C) to soften. Avoid direct contact with hot surfaces when taking out. It is recommended to pre-dilute with part of the water or solvent in the formulation to form a 10%~20% slurry or solution, then slowly inject it into the mixing kettle under stirring. This can significantly improve dissolution speed and distribution uniformity.

Compatibility and Synergy: OP-21 is nonionic and can be compounded with anionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactants in any proportion, showing excellent compatibility. In cleaning and degreasing formulations, it is often compounded with sodium linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS), sodium alcohol ether sulfate (AES), etc., to enhance salt resistance and high-temperature detergency.

Precautions

  • Personal Protection: Chemical protective gloves, goggles, and protective clothing must be worn during operation. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. If accidentally enters eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water for several minutes and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
  • Storage Conditions: The product is hygroscopic and should be stored sealed in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse, away from strong oxidizers, and kept under lock. Packaging specifications: 50 kg, 200 kg plastic drums or IBC totes.
  • Environmental Control: OP-21 is toxic to aquatic organisms with long-lasting effects. Wastewater and waste liquid containing this product must be collected and disposed of in accordance with hazardous waste regulations. Do not discharge directly into water bodies or soil.
  • Health Warning: This product is suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child (Reproductive toxicity category 2). Women of childbearing age and long-term operators must strictly follow the operating procedures and thoroughly wash exposed skin after work.