Question

What is Polyether L-61

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 聚醚L-61

Polyether L-61 (Poloxamer 181 / Pluronic L-61) is a nonionic high-molecular-weight surfactant with efficient emulsification, low foam and foam suppression, and excellent dispersing properties. It is widely used in industrial fields such as polyurethane foam, industrial defoamers, metalworking fluids, textile printing and dyeing, and pesticide formulations.

Detailed Description

Polyether L-61, chemical name Poloxamer 181 (Pluronic L-61), also known as polypropylene glycol (PPG), CAS number 25322-69-4, is produced by Haian Guoli Chemical Co., Ltd. Its unique molecular structure consists of hydrophilic polyoxyethylene (EO) segments and hydrophobic polyoxypropylene (PO) segments. This amphiphilic block copolymer structure endows the product with excellent interfacial activity and broad compatibility.

As a multifunctional industrial surfactant, Polyether L-61 maintains stable performance in acidic, alkaline, and hard water environments. It can significantly reduce oil-water interfacial tension to prepare uniform and fine emulsions; generates extremely low foam under dynamic operation and possesses certain defoaming ability, especially suitable for circulating pumping or spraying processes; and has good wetting and dispersing effects on pigments, fillers, and active components, effectively preventing particle sedimentation and re-agglomeration.

The GHS hazard classification of Polyether L-61 is: Skin corrosion\/irritation Category 2 (H315), Serious eye damage\/eye irritation Category 2 (H319), Specific target organ toxicity single exposure Category 3 (H335). Water hazard class is WGK 1 (slightly hazardous to water). Under normal operating conditions, it has low irritation to skin and mucous membranes and low environmental load.

Technical Parameters

Parameter ItemSpecification\/Description
Product NamePolyether L-61
Chemical NamePoloxamer 181 (Pluronic L-61)
AliasPPG, Polypropylene Glycol
CAS Number25322-69-4
Surfactant TypeNonionic high-molecular-weight surfactant
Molecular StructureEO-PO-EO block copolymer
AppearanceNot available (not provided by database)
HLB ValueNot available (not provided by database)
Molecular WeightNot available (not provided by database)
Cloud PointNot available (not provided by database)
Hydroxyl ValueNot available (not provided by database)
Water Hazard ClassWGK 1 (slightly hazardous to water)
Recommended Storage Temperature5–40°C

Application Suggestions

Polyurethane Foam Field: As a combined stabilizer and cell regulator for flexible and rigid foams, it regulates the nucleation and growth of bubble cells during foaming, making the foam cell size fine and uniform, preventing collapse and coalescence. In rigid foam formulations, it also promotes thorough emulsification of polyol with blowing agents, flame retardants, and other components, improving material fluidity and the uniformity of closed-cell structure.

Industrial Defoamers: With excellent foam breaking and inhibiting properties, it can be used as the main active ingredient in defoamers, widely applied for foam control in coatings, adhesives, papermaking, wastewater treatment and other processes, suitable for circulating pumping and spraying processes.

Water-based Metalworking Fluids: Provides auxiliary lubrication, anti-foam and corrosion inhibition functions, offering boundary lubrication effect, reducing friction and wear, while effectively suppressing foam generated during high-pressure circulation and spraying, extending working fluid life and improving machined surface quality.

Textile Printing and Dyeing Auxiliaries: Used as a low-foam penetrating agent and leveling agent, with extremely low foam and excellent wetting and penetrating ability, helping dye liquor quickly wet fabrics, promoting uniform dye uptake, reducing color difference and patchiness.

Pesticide Formulations: As an efficient emulsifier and dispersant, it improves the dispersion and emulsification stability of oil-soluble pesticides in water, forming stable emulsions or suspensions, enhancing the spreading and penetrating ability of the spray liquid.

Precautions

  • Personal Protection: Wear chemical safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile rubber, neoprene rubber) and protective clothing during operation. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Thoroughly wash hands and exposed body parts after operation.
  • Ventilation Requirements: Operate in a well-ventilated area with local exhaust ventilation to prevent accumulation of vapors or mists. If ventilation is insufficient, wear appropriate respiratory protection equipment.
  • Storage Requirements: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated dedicated warehouse (5–40°C), keep containers tightly closed, away from heat sources, sparks, open flames, and strong oxidizers. Seal promptly after opening to prevent moisture and impurity contamination.
  • Emergency Handling: In case of eye contact, immediately flush with plenty of running water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention; for skin contact, wash thoroughly with plenty of water and soap; if inhaled, move to fresh air quickly. Contain spilled material with sand or inert absorbent materials for collection, prevent entry into drains and waterways.
  • Packaging Material: Containers recommended to be made of compatible materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, polyethylene, polypropylene; avoid using copper, aluminum and their alloys.