Polyether L-61 (Poloxamer 181) is a nonionic polymer surfactant with low irritation to skin and mucous membranes under normal operating conditions, and its water hazard class is only WGK 1 (slightly hazardous to water). However, according to the GHS classification criteria, this product is still classified as a skin irritant (Category 2), eye irritant (Category 2), and respiratory tract irritant (Category 3), so caution should not be relaxed during use.
In industrial application scenarios, Polyether L-61 is commonly used in polyurethane foaming, metalworking fluids, textile auxiliaries, and pesticide formulations. Under different process conditions, the product may disperse as sprays, vapors, or mists. Therefore, during circulating pumping, spraying, or high-temperature operations, enhanced ventilation and personal protective measures are especially needed to avoid cumulative irritation risks from prolonged or repeated exposure.
In addition, although Polyether L-61 is not classified as a flammable or explosive dangerous good, anti-static measures such as grounding are still recommended during dispensing and transfer, and it should be kept away from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases. Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited at the work site. After work, thoroughly wash exposed skin areas and cultivate good occupational hygiene habits.
| Protection Category | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| Engineering Controls | Operate in a well-ventilated area with local exhaust ventilation to avoid accumulation of vapors or mists; if ventilation is insufficient, wear respiratory protection equipment. |
| Eye Protection | Wear chemical safety goggles to prevent contact with splashes or vapors. |
| Hand Protection | Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile rubber, chloroprene rubber recommended). |
| Body Protection | Wear protective clothing to avoid contact with skin and clothing. |
| Respiratory Protection | When ventilation is insufficient or aerosols may be generated, wear appropriate respiratory protection equipment. |
| Hygiene Practices | Thoroughly wash hands and exposed body parts after work; eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited at the work site. |
| Operating Temperature | Control within a reasonable range to avoid excessive vapor or thermal decomposition products. |
| Static Electricity Prevention | Take anti-static measures such as grounding during transfer or dispensing. |
Polyether L-61 should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated dedicated warehouse with the container tightly closed. The recommended storage temperature is 5–40°C, avoiding drastic temperature changes to prevent moisture absorption or deterioration. Keep away from heat sources, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces, and store separately from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases.
Packaging container materials should be compatible materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and avoid using copper, aluminum, and their alloys. The storage area should be equipped with spill containment facilities (such as dikes or trays), and the floor should be made of impermeable material. Regularly check the integrity of containers and packaging, and replace any damaged ones promptly. Empty containers may contain residual hazardous substances and should not be used for other purposes without proper cleaning.
| Emergency Situation | Treatment Method |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Quickly move the person to fresh air and keep respiratory tract open; if breathing difficulty occurs, administer oxygen; if breathing stops, perform artificial respiration immediately and seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Immediately remove contaminated clothing and flush skin thoroughly with plenty of running water and soap for at least 15 minutes; if irritation persists, seek medical attention; wash contaminated clothing before reuse. |
| Eye Contact | Immediately open eyelids and rinse thoroughly with plenty of running water or saline for at least 15 minutes; if contact lenses are present and easily removable, remove them and continue rinsing; seek medical attention immediately. |
| Ingestion | Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth with water; if conscious, give small amounts of water to dilute; never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person; seek medical attention immediately. |
| Spill Handling | Contain and collect using sand, vermiculite, or inert absorbent material; place in a sealed container and dispose of as hazardous waste through a qualified agency; prevent entry into sewers and surface waters. |
| Fire | Use carbon dioxide, dry powder, foam, or water fog for extinguishing; do not use direct water streams; firefighters must wear self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus. |
Disposal of contents or containers must comply with local, regional, national, and international regulations; do not dump or mix with ordinary waste; hand over to a qualified waste treatment agency for disposal.
This safety information is prepared based on current knowledge and is intended only to guide the safe management of the product. It does not constitute a guarantee of product performance. The user is responsible for evaluating the applicability of the above information under specific use conditions and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements. If in doubt, please contact the technical support department of Guoli Chemical or refer to the complete Safety Data Sheet (SDS).