The usage of OP-4 Octylphenol polyoxyethylene ether varies by application field. This product is a nonionic surfactant, and the recommended dosage is usually between 1% and 10%. The specific amount should be determined experimentally based on the formulation system and process conditions.
Detailed Description
OP-4 (Octylphenol polyoxyethylene (4) ether, CAS No.: 9036-19-5) is a lipophilic nonionic surfactant with an HLB value of approximately 8~9. It appears as a light yellow oily liquid and exhibits excellent water-in-oil (W\/O) emulsifying ability. Its molecular structure, featuring a short polyoxyethylene chain (n≈4), imparts low-foaming properties and outstanding chemical stability, maintaining good performance in acidic, alkaline, and hard water media.
When using OP-4, it is generally recommended to first mix it thoroughly with the oil phase components, then slowly add the water phase under stirring to fully leverage its W\/O emulsification advantages. For applications requiring stable emulsions, it can be compounded with other surfactants having higher HLB values (e.g., OP-7, OP-10, etc.) to achieve better emulsification effects and system stability. The operating temperature is typically controlled between 20°C and 60°C; excessive temperatures may affect emulsion stability.
This product is an industrial-grade surfactant with high purity content. It has a certain viscosity at room temperature and may stratify or become turbid at low temperatures, which is a normal physical phenomenon. Stir evenly before use, and it will not affect product performance. It is recommended to store at temperatures between 5°C and 40°C, and to seal promptly after opening.
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Value\/Description |
|---|
| Appearance | Light yellow oily liquid |
| Ionic Type | Nonionic |
| HLB Value (Approximate) | About 8~9 |
| Emulsion Type | Water-in-oil (W\/O) type |
| Cloud Point (1% Aqueous Solution) | Not available (low EO number, does not dissolve in water at room temperature, appears dispersed) |
| Flash Point | >150°C (typical) |
| pH (1% Aqueous Solution) | Not available |
| Solubility | Soluble in oils and organic solvents; dispersible in water |
| Acute Toxicity (Oral LD₅₀) | >2000 mg\/kg (rat), low toxicity |
Application Recommendations
Based on the product data from Guoli Chemical and common industry practices, the recommended dosage of OP-4 in various application fields is as follows (specific dosage should be optimized through experiments based on the actual formulation):
- Pesticide Emulsifier: Recommended dosage is 3%~8% of the total formulation. When compounded with high-HLB emulsifiers, it can effectively improve the emulsification and dispersion effect of organophosphorus and pyrethroid active ingredients.
- Textile Dyeing and Finishing Penetrant\/Leveling Agent: Add 0.5~3 g\/L in the working solution. The dosage is lower for pretreatment penetrants, while it can be appropriately increased for dyeing leveling agents.
- Industrial and Household Cleaners: Recommended addition of 2%~8% in concentrated formulations, with the dilution ratio adjusted based on the degree of soiling. It has excellent emulsifying and dispersing capabilities for mineral oils and polar soils.
- Leather Degreasing Agent: Recommended dosage is 0.5%~2% of the working solution, used in combination with auxiliaries such as soda ash to effectively remove natural fats deep within leather fibers.
- Metalworking Fluids (Cutting Fluids\/Grinding Fluids): Recommended addition of 5%~15% in the concentrate, serving as an emulsifying and lubricating component to help form stable microemulsions.
- Petroleum Extraction and Processing Additives: Adjust according to specific process conditions, typically 1%~5% of the total system, used for emulsification viscosity reduction and interfacial tension regulation.
- Intermediate for Anionic Surfactant Synthesis: Used in stoichiometric ratios in chemical reactions, introducing hydrophilic groups through reactions such as sulfonation or sulfation.
Precautions
- Safety Protection: Wear impermeable gloves, protective clothing, and chemical safety goggles during operation. This product is irritating to the skin (H315) and eyes (H319). In case of contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
- Environmental Protection: This product is extremely toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects (H410). Do not discharge directly into water bodies; dispose of waste through qualified agencies.
- Ventilation Requirements: Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area during use, and avoid inhaling vapors or aerosols. Workplaces should be equipped with eyewash stations and emergency showers.
- Compounding Compatibility: This product is compatible with nonionic and anionic surfactants. When used in strong acidic or strong alkaline systems, it is recommended to conduct compatibility tests in advance to confirm stability.
- Note on Recommended Dosage: The above dosage data are general industry reference ranges, derived from product characteristics based on database and industry experience, and are not official fixed ratios from Guoli Chemical. Users should conduct small-scale optimization based on actual formulations and equipment conditions.
