PEG400DO (PEG 400 Dioleate) is classified as a low-toxicity substance in toxicology. Its acute oral toxicity is extremely low, with a rat oral LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg, and under exposure levels in daily industrial and consumer product formulations, it does not pose a systemic toxicity risk. However, its local irritation to humans cannot be ignored — direct contact may cause skin irritation (H315), splash into eyes causes serious eye irritation (H319), and inhalation of vapor or mist may cause respiratory tract irritation (H335). These hazard categories are GHS Category 2 or Category 3, representing moderate reversible irritation, not corrosive or permanent damage.
In terms of environment, the ecotoxicity level of PEG400DO is relatively mild. Studies have shown that it may have some harmful effects on aquatic organisms, but because the product is readily biodegradable, it does not persist or accumulate in the natural environment for a long time. Microorganisms in wastewater treatment systems can effectively decompose it, without causing continuous harm to the aquatic ecosystem. Overall, as long as emission and treatment are carried out in accordance with regulations, its environmental impact is controllable and minimal.
| Safety Indicator | Parameter |
|---|---|
| GHS Skin Irritation Classification | Category 2 (Causes skin irritation) |
| GHS Eye Irritation Classification | Category 2 (Causes serious eye irritation) |
| GHS Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) | Category 3 (Respiratory tract irritation) |
| Acute Oral Toxicity (Rat) | LD50 > 5000 mg/kg |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable |
| Aquatic Ecotoxicity | May cause harmful effects to aquatic organisms |
| Overall Toxicity Grade | Low-toxicity substance |
Based on its safety profile, PEG400DO can be safely used in personal care products (facial cleansers, body washes, makeup removers, etc.), textile oils, metalworking fluids, agrochemical formulations, and industrial lubricants. The typical addition level in formulations is between 1% and 10%, within which the skin irritation of the finished product is greatly reduced. As a nonionic surfactant, its mild nature makes it particularly suitable for daily chemical product formulations requiring high skin compatibility.