What are the physical and technical parameters of Polyether L-42?

Polyether L-42 is a non-ionic low-foaming surfactant with an HLB value of approximately 8. At room temperature, it appears as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid with balanced comprehensive performance.

Detailed Description

Polyether L-42 (Poloxamer 122/CAS: 9003-11-6) is a polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block copolymer produced by Guoli Chemical. The specific ratio of hydrophobic polypropylene oxide (PO) segments to hydrophilic polyethylene oxide (EO) segments in its molecular structure imparts unique low-foaming characteristics and a moderate hydrophilic-lipophilic balance value. This makes it particularly effective in applications that require rapid foam breaking and suppression without compromising wetting and emulsifying capabilities.

This product is a liquid with a high active content of ≥99%, exhibiting good fluidity and operability (pour point below -20°C). It is highly stable to acids, alkalis, and hard water, and has broad compatibility, working synergistically with various anionic, cationic, and non-ionic additives. In formulations such as metalworking fluids, automatic dishwasher rinse aids, and low-foaming industrial cleaners, it not only serves as a core defoaming/foam suppression component but also effectively reduces dynamic surface tension, enhancing the spreading rate of water films to achieve a streak-free, fast-drying effect.

Polyether L-42 has high safety, good biodegradability, and exhibits low toxicity to aquatic organisms. It is classified as a non-hazardous substance (flash point >200°C). Under standard operating conditions, it is friendly to personnel and the environment, making it safe for use in both household and industrial formulations.

Technical Parameters

Application Recommendations

As a typical low-foaming surfactant, the recommended dosage should be adjusted based on specific formulations and processes. The following are general industry reference ranges:

• Automatic Dishwasher Rinse Aid: As a core rinse ingredient, the recommended addition amount is 5% - 20% of the total formulation, significantly accelerating water film leveling for streak-free, fast drying.
• Low-Foaming Industrial and Household Hard Surface Cleaners: Combined with other additives, the recommended dosage is 2% - 8%, particularly suitable for dynamic rinse systems such as high-pressure spray and CIP (Clean-in-Place) cleaning.
• Metalworking Fluids/Cutting Fluids: As a lubricating, cooling, and low-foaming component, it is recommended to add 3% - 10% in the formulation, effectively suppressing foam generation in circulation and preventing pump cavitation.
• Defoamer Compounding: Can be used as a core defoaming active ingredient, with the dosage ranging from 10% to direct use as a pure product depending on defoaming requirements.
• Textile Scouring/Penetrating Agent: Addition amount of 1 - 5 g/L accelerates the penetration of working solution between fibers, improving capillary effect and whiteness.

Precautions

According to the safety technical data provided by Guoli Chemical, please note the following when using Polyether L-42:

• Operational Protection: Although classified as non-hazardous, it is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles and protective gloves to avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse at temperatures between 5°C and 35°C. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination by foreign matter.
• Incompatibilities: Although stable itself, it should be stored separately from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong alkalis to avoid unnecessary contact.
• Low-Temperature Fluidity: The pour point is below -20°C, allowing normal use in most regions during winter. If solidification occurs under extreme low temperatures, it can return to liquid state after natural warming at room temperature without affecting performance.