Question

Is polyether L-45 harmful to humans? Does it have an impact on the environment?

Answer
2026-06-06 官方文档 聚醚L-45

Polyether L-45 is a low-toxicity chemical, with manageable risks under normal use, but strict protection is required; environmentally, leakage into water bodies should be avoided

Effects on Human Health

According to the safety data sheet from the chemical database, polyether L-45 (CAS:9003-11-6) is classified as a low-toxicity chemical, with controllable risks under normal industrial use conditions. However, direct contact may cause the following health hazards:

Skin irritation (H315): Direct contact can cause skin irritation, manifested as redness, itching, or discomfort. Nitrile or butyl rubber gloves must be worn during handling. In case of contact, immediately flush with plenty of running water and neutral soap for at least 15 minutes.

(Eye damage (H319): Classified as Category 2A for serious eye irritation; contact can cause significant eye irritation, pain, and tearing. Chemical safety goggles compliant with EN 166 standards must be worn during operations. If the substance gets into the eyes, immediately hold eyelids open and rinse with flowing water for at least 15 minutes, then seek ophthalmological medical assistance.

(Respiratory irritation (H335): Inhalation of vapors or mists may cause respiratory discomfort, coughing, or chest tightness. Use only in well-ventilated areas, and provide local exhaust ventilation if necessary. If breathing difficulties occur after inhalation, move quickly to fresh air and seek medical attention.

Environmental Impact Assessment

The database does not provide ecotoxicological data for polyether L-45 (such as fish LC50, daphnia EC50, biodegradability, etc.), so there is no specific quantitative assessment of the product's impact on the aquatic environment. However, based on its chemical structure, polyether L-45 belongs to the class of polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block copolymers (Poloxamers). The biodegradation rate of such nonionic surfactants is generally slower than that of linear surfactants, indicating certain persistence in the aquatic environment.

According to leakage handling requirements, it is necessary to prevent the spilled material from entering sewers, surface water, or groundwater systems, indicating that the product may have potential adverse effects on aquatic organisms. In case of leakage, use inert absorbent materials (such as sand, vermiculite, or chemical absorbents) to contain and collect the spilled material, and dispose of it through qualified agencies; direct discharge is prohibited. Combustion products include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and irritating toxic vapors. Firefighting water runoff must also be controlled and collected.

Comprehensive Safety Recommendations

  • Industrial Use: Strictly follow operating procedures, wear protective gloves and goggles throughout the process, and ensure good ventilation.
  • Storage and Transport: Store in a cool, dry warehouse at 5–35°C in sealed containers, use anti-static equipment, and keep away from strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, and strong bases.
  • Wastewater Treatment: Industrial wastewater containing this product must be treated through a professional wastewater treatment system to meet discharge standards before release; direct discharge into the environment is prohibited.
  • Personal Protection: Thoroughly wash hands and exposed areas after work; contaminated work clothes must not be taken out of the work area.

Precautions

Although this product is classified as low-toxicity, the GHS classification explicitly indicates three hazard categories. In case of ingestion, do not induce vomiting (unless directed by medical personnel). If conscious, drink a small amount of water to dilute, and immediately call a poison control center or seek medical attention. All emergency measures should be carried out in conjunction with the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS).