Polyether F-38 (CAS No.: 9003-11-6, also known as Poloxamer 108) is a block copolymer of ethylene oxide (EO) and propylene oxide (PO), belonging to the Pluronic class of nonionic surfactants. In its molecular structure, the EO segments provide hydrophilicity, while the PO segments provide hydrophobicity. By adjusting the EO/PO ratio, an excellent hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance is achieved, enabling outstanding interfacial activity in various industrial scenarios.
At room temperature, this product is a colorless to pale yellow transparent liquid. It maintains stable performance in acidic, alkaline, and high-hardness water environments, with a much wider application range than traditional anionic or cationic surfactants. Its low-foam characteristic is particularly prominent — it generates low amounts of foam and is easily controlled and defoamed, making it especially suitable for processes requiring rapid defoaming or low-foam operation, such as metalworking fluid circulation systems and textile dyeing.
From the perspective of safety and environmental protection, Polyether F-38 is a low-toxicity substance, with an acute oral toxicity LD₅₀ > 5 g/kg. It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing to the skin, and eye contact causes only mild reversible irritation. The product is non-flammable and non-explosive, with high operational safety. It is readily biodegradable in the environment (degradation rate >60% under OECD 301B standard) and has low ecotoxicity (fish LC₅₀/daphnia EC₅₀ both >100 mg/L), aligning with the concept of modern green chemistry.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Polyether F-38 |
| CAS No. | 9003-11-6 |
| Synonyms | Poloxamer 108; Pluronic F-38 |
| Chemical Type | Nonionic surfactant (EO-PO block copolymer) |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow transparent liquid |
| Ionicity | Nonionic |
| Foam Characteristic | Low foam, easy to control and defoam |
| Chemical Stability | Acid-resistant, alkali-resistant, high-hardness water-resistant |
| Acute Oral Toxicity (Rat) | LD₅₀ > 5 g/kg (low toxicity) |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating |
| Skin Sensitization | Non-sensitizing |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable (OECD 301B, >60%) |
| Ecotoxicity | LC₅₀/EC₅₀ > 100 mg/L (low toxicity) |
| Flammability | Non-flammable, non-dangerous goods |
| Recommended Storage Temperature | 5°C - 40°C |
| Shelf Life | One year in unopened packaging |
Due to the comprehensive properties mentioned above, Polyether F-38 has significant application value in multiple industrial fields:
Low temperatures (below 5°C) may cause the product to solidify or become cloudy. It can be restored to its original state by warming and stirring evenly, without affecting product quality. When handling, it is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles and protective gloves to avoid contact with skin and eyes. The product should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, away from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers.