Polyether L-44 (Poloxamer 124) is a high-performance nonionic surfactant produced by Guoli Chemical. At room temperature, it is a colorless to slightly yellow transparent liquid with good water solubility and chemical stability. In practical use, it can be directly added to the aqueous or oil phase and stirred evenly, or it can be premixed with other surfactants or solvents in the formulation before being introduced into the main system. Due to the product's viscosity of approximately 260 mm²/s (25°C) and good fluidity, it can be operated without heating. However, if the viscosity increases in low-temperature environments (pour point < -20°C), heating appropriately to 25–35°C can restore normal flow.
Polyether L-44 has a high HLB value (approximately 16) and strong hydrophilicity, making it particularly excellent for preparing oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. Thanks to its low-foaming properties and excellent wetting and dispersing capabilities, it is especially suitable for processes with strict foam control requirements, such as high-pressure spray cleaning and circulating water systems. Additionally, the product can be well compounded with anionic, cationic, and other nonionic surfactants, providing formulators with great flexibility and compatibility.
| Parameter | Typical Value / Range |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to slightly yellow transparent liquid |
| Active Content (%) | ≥99 |
| HLB Value | Approx. 16 |
| pH Value (1% Aqueous Solution) | 5.0 – 7.0 |
| Cloud Point (1% Aqueous Solution) | Approx. 70°C |
| Density (25°C) | 1.05 – 1.06 g/cm³ |
| Kinematic Viscosity (25°C) | Approx. 260 mm²/s |
| Surface Tension (1% Aqueous Solution, 25°C) | Approx. 38 mN/m |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, ethanol, ether, etc. |
Polyurethane Industry: As a foam stabilizer or leveling agent, the recommended dosage is 0.5% – 2.0% of the total formulation. Premix Polyether L-44 with the polyol component and stir evenly, then react and foam or cure with isocyanate to improve cell structure and film smoothness.
Industrial Cleaning and Metalworking Fluids: Used as a low-foaming emulsifier and wetting agent, the recommended addition amount is 1% – 10%. Add it directly to water and stir to dissolve, then add other cleaning aids (such as chelating agents, alkali, etc.) to ensure the system maintains low foam even under high-pressure spraying.
Pesticide Formulations: As an emulsifier for emulsifiable concentrates or microemulsions, the recommended dosage is 3% – 8%. Usually, mix the active ingredient with Polyether L-44 and auxiliary emulsifiers evenly, then slowly add the aqueous phase under stirring to obtain a transparent or translucent microemulsion with good stability.
Personal Care Products: As a mild emollient and emulsion stabilizer, the recommended dosage is 0.5% – 3%. Add it to the water phase during the emulsification stage and heat to approximately 70–80°C, then mix and homogenize with the oil phase to impart a smooth skin feel and good spreadability to the product.