Question

What is high-quality polyether F-6

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 优质聚醚F-6

High-quality polyether F-6 is a nonionic surfactant based on castor oil. Its chemical name is castor oil polyoxyethylene ether (ethoxylated castor oil). Due to its excellent defoaming and foam inhibition properties, it is widely used in industrial defoamers, low-foam cleaning agents, metalworking fluids, textile auxiliaries, water treatment, and many other fields.

Detailed description

High-quality polyether F-6 (CAS No.: 61791-12-6), also known as castor oil polyoxyethylene ether, emulsifier EL, PEG castor oil, and ethoxylated castor oil (Polyoxyethylene castor oil), is a nonionic surfactant produced by the addition polymerization of castor oil with ethylene oxide. Its appearance is a light yellow to yellow transparent viscous liquid, belonging to the polyoxypropylene glycerol ether product category.

The most outstanding feature of this product is its excellent defoaming and foam inhibition performance — even a small amount can quickly break existing foam and effectively inhibit foam regeneration over a long period. At the same time, it exhibits excellent resistance to acids, alkalis, and hard water, maintaining stable and efficient defoaming performance over a wide pH range and under complex water conditions. Its chemical stability is high, and it does not easily undergo adverse reactions with other additives, offering broad compatibility. It is a low-toxicity, environmentally friendly, and easily biodegradable green chemical product.

The product is classified as a non-hazardous chemical, non-irritating to skin and eyes, and non-flammable. Under recommended storage conditions (5°C to 35°C, in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area), the shelf life is generally 12 months. Products beyond the shelf life may continue to be used after passing re-inspection.

Technical parameters

Parameter nameParameter value
Product nameHigh-quality polyether F-6
CAS No.61791-12-6
SynonymsCastor oil polyoxyethylene ether, emulsifier EL, PEG castor oil, ethoxylated castor oil
English namePolyoxyethylene castor oil
Product typeNonionic surfactant
AppearanceLight yellow to yellow transparent viscous liquid
Hazard classificationNon-hazardous chemical
Storage temperature5°C to 35°C
Shelf life12 months (under recommended storage conditions)

Application suggestions

Defoamer component: As a core raw material for high-efficiency defoamers, it is widely used in foam control during fermentation processes, papermaking, textile printing and dyeing, water-based coatings, and industrial wastewater treatment, providing lasting foam inhibition and rapid foam breaking.

Industrial low-foam cleaning agents: Used in formulating low-foam cleaning agents to reduce foam generation during spray cleaning, high-pressure cleaning, and other processes, while maintaining good wetting, penetration, and detergency, especially suitable for metal and hard surface cleaning.

Metalworking fluid component: As a basic component for lubrication and cooling in cutting fluids and grinding fluids, it reduces friction and processing temperature, improves workpiece surface finish, and offers excellent hard water resistance and emulsion stability.

Textile pretreatment auxiliaries: Used as a wetting agent and degreasing agent in processes such as desizing, scouring, and bleaching, helping the working fluid quickly and uniformly wet the fabric, thereby improving pretreatment efficiency and quality.

Water treatment chemicals: Can be used as a dispersant, scale inhibitor, or heat transfer medium additive to improve system operation efficiency and equipment protection capability.

Precautions

  • Protective measures during operation: It is recommended to wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and laboratory work clothes during operation to avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.
  • Container selection: Use sealed containers made of stainless steel, glass, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Avoid using metal containers such as copper or aluminum that may cause product discoloration.
  • Storage segregation: Store separately from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong alkalis. The storage area should be equipped with anti-leakage dikes or trays.
  • Spill treatment: For small spills, contain and collect with inert absorbent materials (such as diatomaceous earth, vermiculite, or dry sand). Prevent entry into sewers or water bodies.
  • First aid measures: In case of skin contact, flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. For eye contact, lift the eyelids and rinse thoroughly for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention immediately if discomfort persists. If ingested, do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention promptly.