Polyether F-38 (Poloxamer 108) is a nonionic surfactant that appears as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid at room temperature. It has good water solubility and chemical stability. It can be directly added or pre-diluted with deionized water or a compatible solvent before slow addition. Due to its low-foaming property, it can be uniformly dispersed under stirring conditions without the need for special high-shear equipment.
This product maintains stable performance in acidic, alkaline, and hard water conditions, with a wide applicable pH range. If the product solidifies or becomes turbid due to low-temperature storage, this is a normal physical phenomenon. Simply warm it to room temperature (recommended 20°C to 30°C) and stir evenly to restore its original state, without affecting the usage effect. It is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles and protective gloves during operation, avoiding prolonged direct contact with skin and eyes.
The usage of polyether F-38 varies significantly in different application scenarios. As a raw material for polyurethane foam, it is usually mixed with isocyanate, catalyst, blowing agent, etc., according to the formula ratio for reaction. As an intermediate for defoamers, it needs to be compounded and modified with other active components. As an additive in textile auxiliaries or metalworking fluids, it is generally added in diluted form at a proportion to the working fluid.
| Application field | Recommended usage | Reference dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Polyurethane flexible/rigid foam | Directly participate in polymerization as a polyol component, mix with other raw materials according to formula ratio and then foam | 10%~60% of total formula (depending on foam type) |
| Defoamer/demulsifier synthesis | As an intermediate compounded or esterified with active components such as silicone oil and fatty acid esters to prepare efficient defoaming products | 20%~80% of total formula |
| Coatings and adhesives | Add slowly during the paint or adhesive preparation stage, stir at medium speed to improve leveling and wetting properties | 0.5%~3% of total formula |
| Textile auxiliaries (leveling agent/antistatic agent) | Pre-dilute with warm water to a 10%~20% solution, then add to the dye bath or finishing bath | 0.1%~1% of total working fluid |
| Paper chemicals | Directly add to the pulp suspension to improve fiber dispersion | 0.05%~0.5% of absolute dry pulp weight |
| Metalworking fluids | As an emulsifier and lubricant component, compound with other additives and then add to base oil or water | 2%~8% of total concentrate |
Dilution and dissolution: The product is a liquid and can be used directly. If dilution is needed, it is recommended to use deionized water or process-compatible solvent, stirring to dissolve at room temperature or slightly warm. The diluted solution is recommended to be prepared and used immediately. For storage, it should be sealed to avoid contamination.
Addition order: In compounding systems, polyether F-38 is usually added to the aqueous or oil phase before emulsification or mixing. For example, in defoamer preparation, F-38 is generally mixed with other surfactant components first, then active ingredients are gradually added.
Dosage optimization: The above dosage ranges are industry general recommendations. The optimal addition amount is greatly influenced by system composition, process conditions, and performance requirements. It is recommended that users determine the optimal dosage through small-scale gradient experiments during new formula development or process adjustments to avoid excessive use leading to increased cost or performance degradation.