Isomeric Tridecanol Polyether E-1306 (CAS No.: 9043-30-5, approximately 6 EO) is a high-performance nonionic surfactant synthesized by ethoxylation of isomeric tridecanol as the starting material. Its core differentiating advantage stems from the unique branched chain structure of isomeric alcohol—compared to traditional linear fatty alcohol polyethers, the branched molecules are more compact in spatial arrangement with weaker intermolecular forces, resulting in lower pour point (melting point <0°C) and excellent low-temperature fluidity. It does not easily solidify in cold environments, making it more convenient to handle, especially suitable for northern winter or low-temperature process conditions.
In terms of interfacial properties, the branched structure of E-1306 imparts a faster dynamic surface tension reduction rate (surface tension of 0.1% aqueous solution approximately 28.5 mN/m). This means that in dynamic processes such as fast cleaning, spraying, and high-speed coating, it can quickly migrate to newly generated interfaces and exert wetting and spreading effects, significantly shortening the time for the system to reach equilibrium. Meanwhile, with approximately 6 EO units, the product maintains an HLB value of around 11.5 and a cloud point of 44~46°C (1% aqueous solution), achieving a good balance between wetting/penetration and emulsifying ability—it can effectively emulsify and remove oil stains while also rapidly penetrating into substrate micro-gaps.
Furthermore, E-1306 exhibits low foam characteristics and good biodegradability. It shows excellent compatibility with anionic, cationic, and other nonionic surfactants, and maintains stable surface activity over a wide pH range and in hard water systems containing calcium and magnesium ions. These comprehensive properties make it an ideal choice for industrial cleaning, textile printing and dyeing, metalworking fluids, and other fields where both efficiency and environmental friendliness are required.
| Parameter | Typical Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to slightly yellow transparent liquid | — |
| Ionic Type | Nonionic | — |
| Active Content | ≥99% | — |
| HLB Value | 11.5 | Balances emulsification and wetting |
| Cloud Point (1% aqueous solution) | 44~46°C | — |
| Hydroxyl Value | 100~120 mgKOH/g | — |
| Surface Tension (0.1% aqueous solution, 25°C) | Approx. 28.5 mN/m | Excellent surface activity |
| Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) | 10~20 mg/L | Micelles form at low dosage |
| Density (20°C) | 0.96~0.98 g/cm³ | — |
| Kinematic Viscosity (25°C) | Approx. 40 mm²/s | Good fluidity |
| pH Value (1% aqueous solution) | 5.0~7.0 | Nearly neutral |
| Flash Point (closed cup) | >150°C | Safe storage and transport |
| Melting Point | <0°C | Does not solidify at low temperature |
| Foam Characteristics | Low foam | Suitable for formulating low-foam recipes |
| Free Alcohol Content | ≤1% | High purity, low odor |
The molecular structure of E-1306 with approximately 6 EO units achieves an excellent balance between wetting/penetration and emulsifying degreasing, making it particularly suitable for the following scenarios:
The recommended dosage is generally 1%~10% of the total formulation, which should be optimized based on the HLB requirement of the target system, oil phase type, and process conditions.