OP-4 Octylphenol Ethoxylate (CAS No.: 9036-19-5) is a nonionic surfactant with low acute oral toxicity (rat LD₅₀ > 2000 mg/kg), classified as a low-toxicity substance. Its flash point is > 150 °C, making it non-flammable and presenting low fire risk under normal use conditions. However, this product causes significant skin and eye irritation (H315/H319). During operation, impermeable gloves, protective clothing, and chemical safety goggles or face shields must be worn to avoid direct contact with the body.
The greatest environmental risk of this product lies in its aquatic ecotoxicity—the H410 warning indicates that even small amounts released into water can cause extreme toxicity to aquatic organisms, with persistent effects that are difficult to degrade. Therefore, it is strictly forbidden to discharge the product or rinse solutions containing it directly into sewers, surface water, or groundwater. All waste must be handed over to qualified professional agencies for harmless disposal.
For storage, keep in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, with a recommended storage temperature of 5 °C ~ 40 °C, avoiding extreme temperatures and drastic temperature changes. Containers should be promptly resealed after use, kept away from strong oxidizers, strong acids, and other incompatible substances, as well as away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames. The storage area floor should be impermeable, with containment berms or drainage to prevent spill spread.
| Parameter | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Acute Toxicity (Oral, Rat) | LD₅₀ > 2000 mg/kg (Low toxicity) |
| Flash Point | > 150 °C (Typical, non-flammable) |
| Skin Irritation | H315 — Causes skin irritation |
| Eye Irritation | H319 — Causes serious eye irritation |
| Aquatic Toxicity | H410 — Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects |
| Recommended Storage Temperature | 5 °C ~ 40 °C |
Leak Emergency Response: For small spills, cover with inert absorbent material (e.g., sand, vermiculite) and collect into a dedicated sealed container for disposal as hazardous waste. For large spills, construct dikes or pits to contain, prevent spread to sewers and waterways, and transfer using explosion-proof pumps to dedicated collectors. Rinse water must not flow into public waters.
Firefighting Measures: Suitable extinguishing media: water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry powder, carbon dioxide. Avoid direct water jets. Firefighters must wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. Combustion may produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and acrid smoke. Containers exposed to fire should be cooled with water spray.
First Aid Measures: In case of skin contact, immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash with soap and plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, immediately flush with plenty of water with eyelids held open for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention promptly. If inhaled, move to fresh air, give oxygen if breathing is difficult. If swallowed, do NOT induce vomiting, rinse mouth with water and seek medical attention immediately.