Question

How to store Oleth-5? What is the shelf life?

Answer
2026-06-06 官方文档 油醇聚氧乙烯醚OV-5

Oleth-5 should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place in a sealed container, with a recommended temperature of 5–35°C. There is no official standard shelf life data; under proper storage conditions, it can typically remain stable for 12–24 months.

Detailed Explanation

Oleth-5 is a nonionic surfactant with relatively stable chemical properties. However, as a polyoxyethylene ether product, prolonged exposure to high temperatures, light, or humid environments may cause color deepening, pH shift, or reduced emulsifying performance. Therefore, strict storage management is key to ensuring product effectiveness and safety.

According to the chemical safety technical documentation provided by Guoli Chemical, this product should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, away from heat sources, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources. The storage temperature should be controlled within the range of 5–35°C, avoiding high temperature exposure and freezing environments. High temperatures may accelerate oxidative deterioration, while freezing may cause product stratification or cloudiness, affecting performance. Additionally, it must be kept away from strong oxidizing agents (such as peroxides, permanganates, concentrated acids, etc.) to prevent incompatible chemical reactions.

Containers should always be kept tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption or volatilization, and placed on corrosion-resistant trays or spill containment berms. It is strictly prohibited to store in the same area as food, feed, or drinking water sources to avoid cross-contamination. After opening, unused product should be resealed as soon as possible to minimize air exposure.

Storage Conditions Overview

Storage ElementSpecific Requirements
Temperature Range5–35°C, avoid high temperature exposure and freezing
Environment RequirementsCool, dry, well-ventilated
Container StatusKeep sealed, reseal promptly after opening
Placement RequirementsPlace on corrosion-resistant trays or spill containment berms
Substances to AvoidStrong oxidizing agents (peroxides, permanganates, concentrated acids, etc.)
Fire Prevention RequirementsAway from heat sources, sparks, open flames, and ignition sources (flash point >150°C closed cup)
Segregation RequirementsAvoid storing in the same area as food, feed, and drinking water

Shelf Life Explanation

Currently, the Guoli Chemical product database does not provide official standard shelf life data for Oleth-5. According to general industry experience for nonionic surfactants, under strict adherence to the above storage conditions (sealed, protected from light, constant temperature of 5–35°C), unopened products can typically maintain stable performance for 12–24 months. It is recommended that users refer to the batch number and production date on the product packaging and follow a first-in, first-out inventory management principle.

If any of the following abnormal phenomena occur, the product should be discontinued even if it is within the reference shelf life: obvious turbidity or stratification, significant color deepening, off-odor, or pH value significantly deviating from the normal range. It is recommended to sample and test key indicators (such as pH, cloud point, appearance, etc.) upon receipt to establish an internal quality control record.

Precautions

  • Although the product has a flash point above 150°C (closed cup) and is not flammable, it can still be ignited at high temperatures. The storage area should be equipped with appropriate fire extinguishing equipment (water mist, dry powder, CO₂, etc.).
  • In case of leakage, collect with inert absorbent materials (sand, vermiculite, etc.) and prevent entry into drains and natural water bodies—this product is harmful to aquatic organisms (H412).
  • If there is a strict requirement for shelf life, it is recommended to confirm the specific batch validity period or obtain a Certificate of Analysis (COA) with the Guoli Chemical sales team.