What are the main components of Polyether F-38?

The main components of Polyether F-38 are block copolymers of ethylene oxide (EO) and propylene oxide (PO), belonging to the class of Poloxamer 108 nonionic surfactants.

Detailed Description

The chemical essence of Polyether F-38 (CAS number: 9003-11-6) is a poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(propylene glycol)-block-poly(ethylene glycol) triblock copolymer, i.e., a PEO-PPO-PEO structure. Its industrial name is "Poloxamer 108", a high-performance nonionic surfactant synthesized by block polymerization using ethylene oxide (EO) and propylene oxide (PO) as basic monomers under Guoli Chemical.

In the molecular structure of this copolymer, the middle polypropylene glycol (PPO) segment provides hydrophobicity, while the polyethylene glycol (PEO) segments at both ends provide hydrophilicity. By controlling the block ratio and molecular weight of EO and PO, Polyether F-28 achieves an excellent hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB value), resulting in outstanding emulsifying, wetting, dispersing, and low-foaming properties, widely used in polyurethane industry, defoamer synthesis, coating modification, textile auxiliaries, and metalworking fluids.

According to the general naming convention for Poloxamer products, the "F" indicates the product form is flake or flowable solid (Flake/Flowable), and the number "38" reflects the specifications regarding the molecular weight of the PPO segment and the proportion of PEO. At room temperature, Polyether F-38 appears as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid or paste, with no obvious irritating odor, and is a low-toxicity, easily biodegradable, safe and environmentally friendly chemical raw material.

Technical Parameters

Application Suggestions

With its unique EO/PO block copolymer structure, Polyether F-38 is suitable for the following scenarios:

• Polyurethane Foams: As a core reactive component in flexible foams, rigid foams, and elastomers, regulating cell structure and foaming fluidity.
• Defoamer and Demulsifier Synthesis: As an intermediate for preparing high-efficiency defoamers and crude oil demulsifiers, performing excellently in petroleum extraction and wastewater treatment.
• Coating and Adhesive Modification: Introducing flexible segments to improve coating flexibility, hydrolysis resistance, and low-temperature impact resistance.
• Textile and Papermaking Auxiliaries: Used in spinning oils, dyeing auxiliaries, and pulp dispersants, providing leveling, antistatic, and soft hand feel.
• Metalworking Fluids: Providing excellent lubrication and anti-rust performance, suitable for formulating cutting fluids and cleaning agents.

Precautions

• This product is low-toxic, non-flammable, and non-hazardous, but still requires adherence to general industrial chemical handling practices. Wear protective gloves and chemical safety goggles during operation.
• Recommended storage temperature is 5°C–40°C. Low temperatures may cause solidification or cloudiness; after warming and stirring evenly, it can return to its original state without affecting product quality.
• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers; keep the packaging sealed and store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse.
• Under recommended storage conditions, the shelf life of unopened packaging is typically one year.