Oleth-5 (Polyoxyethylene oleyl ether OV-5) is a nonionic surfactant with low acute toxicity—oral LD50 (rat) > 2000 mg/kg, placing it in the low-toxicity category. However, this does not mean it can be ignored or handled carelessly. According to the GHS classification criteria, this product is clearly classified as a skin irritant (Category 2, H315), a serious eye irritant (Category 2, H319), and a respiratory irritant (Category 3, H335). Direct skin contact may cause redness, itching, and other irritation reactions; accidental eye contact can lead to serious eye damage; inhalation of vapors or mists can cause respiratory discomfort.
In terms of the environment, Oleth-5 is classified as hazardous to the aquatic environment (Chronic Hazard Category 3, H412), indicating that it is harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. This product does not readily biodegrade in the natural environment, so it must not be discharged into sewers, surface water, or groundwater systems. Wastewater containing this product generated during production and use must be professionally treated before discharge to avoid persistent damage to aquatic ecosystems.
| Parameter Category | Data/Classification | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Toxicity (Oral, Rat) | LD50 > 2000 mg/kg | Low toxicity |
| Skin Corrosion/Irritation | Category 2 (H315) | Causes skin irritation |
| Serious Eye Damage/Eye Irritation | Category 2 (H319) | Causes serious eye irritation |
| Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) | Category 3 (H335) | May cause respiratory irritation |
| Hazardous to the Aquatic Environment (Chronic) | Category 3 (H412) | Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects |
| Flash Point (Closed Cup) | > 150°C | Not flammable, but can ignite at high temperatures |
In practical applications, Oleth-5 is widely used in cosmetics (creams, lotions, sunscreens, facial cleansers, etc.), industrial cleaners, textile auxiliaries, metalworking fluids, and pesticide formulations. In these applications, the product is typically used at low concentrations in finished formulations, significantly reducing its direct irritation potential to humans. However, during manufacturing operations (such as dosing, packaging, and compounding), strict protective measures are still necessary.
Industrial users should establish proper workplace ventilation systems to ensure that vapor or mist concentrations in the air are below occupational exposure limits. For industrial wastewater containing this product, necessary biological treatment or disposal by a qualified waste treatment facility should be performed before discharge; direct discharge into the environment without treatment is strictly prohibited.