Question

What are the main characteristics of Polyether F-68?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 聚醚F-68

Polyether F-68 (Poloxamer 188) is a high HLB value (29), low-foaming block polyether nonionic surfactant, with core characteristics of excellent emulsification and dispersion capabilities, superior water solubility, and outstanding safety performance, making it irreplaceable in high-end fields such as pharmaceutical injections and cell culture.

Detailed Description

Polyether F-68 (CAS No.: 9003-11-6) belongs to the polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene (PEO-PPO-PEO) ABA-type triblock copolymer with a molecular weight range of 7680~9510. The hydrophilic polyoxyethylene segment in its molecular structure accounts for about 80%, giving the product extremely high water solubility and an HLB value of 29, making it an ideal emulsifier for O\/W emulsions. It appears as a white to slightly yellowish waxy solid with a melting point of 52~57°C, stable at room temperature, and exhibits good tolerance to acidic and alkaline environments as well as metal ions in hard water.

In terms of surface activity, the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of Polyether F-68 is approximately 0.5 g\/L (25°C), and the surface tension of a 0.1% aqueous solution is about 43 mN\/m, demonstrating mild yet effective interfacial activity. The product also features low-foaming properties and excellent dispersion and wetting abilities. The pH value of a 1% aqueous solution is between 5.0 and 8.0, and the cloud point exceeds 100°C, indicating stable performance over a wide temperature range.

Safety is a distinctive feature of Polyether F-68 compared to common industrial surfactants. As a pharmaceutical excipient grade product, its active content is ≥99.0%, heavy metal content ≤10 mg\/kg (as Pb), and arsenic content ≤2 mg\/kg, meeting stringent pharmaceutical industry standards. The product is classified as a non-restricted dangerous good under the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, but according to GHS classification, it is categorized as Skin Irritant Category 2, Eye Irritant Category 2A, and Respiratory Irritant Category 3 (signal word: Warning). Appropriate personal protective equipment is recommended during handling.

Technical Parameters

Parameter Value Parameter Value
Ionic Type Nonionic Appearance White to slightly yellowish waxy solid
CAS No. 9003-11-6 Molecular Weight 7680~9510
HLB Value 29 Cloud Point (1% aqueous solution) >100°C
Melting Point 52~57°C Active Content ≥99.0%
pH (1% aqueous solution) 5.0~8.0 pH (5% aqueous solution) 5.0~7.5
Surface Tension (0.1%, 25°C) ~43 mN\/m CMC (25°C) ~0.5 g\/L
Hydroxyl Value 9~12 mg KOH\/g Acid Value ≤0.5 mg KOH\/g
Moisture ≤0.5% Density 1.00~1.10 g\/cm³
Iodine Value ≤1 g I₂\/100g Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤10 mg\/kg
Arsenic Content ≤2 mg\/kg Flash Point >260°C
Foaming Characteristics Low Foaming Alkali Resistance Good
Hygroscopicity Hygroscopic Solubility Easily soluble in water

Data source: Guoli Chemical Product Database. Physicochemical indices are typical values. Please refer to the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for specific batch data.

Application Suggestions

Pharmaceutical Field (Core Application): As a highly effective emulsifier for intravenous fat emulsions, solubilizer and stabilizer for oral solutions and eye drops, it can significantly enhance the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. It can also be used as a hydrophilic base for suppositories. Applications in this field require the use of pharmaceutical excipient grade products that comply with relevant pharmacopoeia standards.

Biotechnology and Cell Culture: Added to culture media as a shear protectant, it effectively protects suspension-cultured cells from fluid mechanical damage caused by stirring and aeration by reducing gas-liquid interfacial tension. Typical usage concentration is 0.5~3 g\/L.

Personal Care and Cosmetics: Used as a mild nonionic emulsifier and dispersant in formulations such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and body washes, helping to improve spreadability and skin feel.

Industrial Auxiliaries: Used as a high-performance lubricant, low-foaming defoamer, mold release agent, and dispersant in coatings and inks.

Precautions

  • Handling Protection: The product may cause skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and respiratory irritation (H335). During operation, wear a dust mask, chemical-resistant gloves, airtight safety goggles, and protective work clothing.
  • Storage Conditions: Keep the container tightly closed and store in a cool (recommended below 25°C), dry, well-ventilated place. Avoid prolonged exposure to humid environments to prevent caking. Keep away from strong oxidizing agents and high-temperature heat sources.
  • Moisture Management: The product is hygroscopic. Seal promptly after opening to avoid moisture absorption affecting performance.
  • Disposal: Waste from the product must be disposed of by a qualified organization in accordance with chemical waste regulations. Do not discharge into drains or water bodies.
  • Packaging Specifications: Standard packaging from Guoli Chemical is a 25 kg woven bag.