Question

What is the main component of Polyether L-44?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 聚醚L-44

The main component of Polyether L-44 is a block copolymer of ethylene oxide (EO) and propylene oxide (PO), with the chemical name polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene ether, belonging to the Poloxamer class of nonionic surfactants.

Detailed Description

Polyether L-44 (Poloxamer 124) is a high molecular weight nonionic surfactant synthesized through the copolymerization of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide. Its molecular structure is a typical ABA-type triblock copolymer, namely polyoxyethylene (PEO)-polyoxypropylene (PPO)-polyoxyethylene (PEO), with the molecular formula expressed as HO(C₂H₄O)ₐ(C₃H₆O)₆(C₂H₄O)ₐH, where a≈12, b≈20, and the molecular weight is approximately 2200. This structure determines its excellent surface activity—the polyoxypropylene chain segment in the molecule acts as a hydrophobic group, while the polyoxyethylene chain segments on both sides act as hydrophilic groups, granting it both good water solubility and emulsifying ability.

The product appears as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid, with an active ingredient content of ≥99%, belonging to high-purity nonionic surfactants. Since the molecular structure contains no ionic groups, it has strong chemical stability and can withstand acidic, alkaline, and hard water environments without easily losing efficacy. According to technical parameters provided by the Guoli Chemical Database, its HLB value is 16, indicating strong hydrophilicity, a cloud point of approximately 70°C (1% aqueous solution), surface tension of about 38 mN/m (1% aqueous solution, 25°C), and critical micelle concentration of about 0.004% (w/v), demonstrating excellent surface activity and micelle formation ability.

Technical Parameters

Parameter NameValueDescription
CAS Number9003-11-6General chemical number for Poloxamer 124
Molecular FormulaHO(C₂H₄O)ₐ(C₃H₆O)₆(C₂H₄O)ₐHa≈12, b≈20
Molecular WeightApproximately 2200Block copolymer of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide
Ionic TypeNonionic
Active Ingredient≥99%Measured data, from Guoli Chemical Database
HLB Value16Strong hydrophilicity
Cloud Point (1% Aqueous Solution)Approximately 70°C
Hydroxyl Value45-55 mg KOH/g
Acid Value≤0.5 mg KOH/g
Moisture Content≤0.5%
Density (25°C)1.05-1.06 g/cm³
Kinematic Viscosity (25°C)Approximately 260 mm²/s
AppearanceColorless to light yellow transparent liquidObserved at 25°C
SolubilitySoluble in water, ethanol, ether, etc.

Application Recommendations

Based on its chemical composition and performance characteristics, Polyether L-44 is suitable for the following fields:

  • Polyurethane Industry: Used as a foam stabilizer for flexible, rigid, and semi-rigid foams, leveraging its excellent emulsification, nucleation, and cell fining functions to ensure uniform and stable foam; also used as a leveling agent for polyurethane coatings.
  • Industrial Cleaning Formulations: As a low-foaming surfactant, it adapts to high-pressure spraying and circulating cleaning processes while providing synergistic effects of emulsification, detergency, and anti-rust properties.
  • Metalworking Fluids: Provides lubrication, wetting, and cleaning actions, helping to extend tool life and improve workpiece surface quality.
  • Agrochemical Formulations: Used as an emulsifier to enhance the wetting and spreading ability of the spray solution, improving pesticide efficacy utilization.
  • Personal Care Products: Serves as a mild skin conditioning agent in cosmetic formulations, providing a smooth skin feel.

Precautions

This product is not classified as a hazardous chemical, is non-flammable, has very low acute oral toxicity (rat LD₅₀ > 5,000 mg/kg), and is non-irritating to the skin, but may cause mild to moderate eye irritation. It is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles during operation and avoid prolonged direct contact with eyes. The product should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, with a storage temperature recommended not to exceed 40°C, avoiding high temperatures and direct sunlight.