Polyether L-62 (CAS number: 9003-11-6) is a non-ionic surfactant produced by Guoli Chemical. Its appearance is a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid, with an HLB value of approximately 7 and a cloud point of about 32°C (1% aqueous solution). It is a typical low-foam polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block copolymer. Its unique block structure endows the product with excellent emulsifying, wetting, dispersing, and leveling capabilities, along with good resistance to acids, alkalis, and hard water.
Thanks to its extremely low foaming characteristics and good surface activity, polyether L-62 performs outstandingly in industrial scenarios that require foam control, such as high-pressure spray cleaning and metal cutting processes. Additionally, its mild physiological properties (acute oral toxicity LD₅₀ > 2000 mg/kg) make it safe for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
| Industry | Specific Process/Product | Functional Role |
|---|---|---|
| Metalworking | Cutting fluids, grinding fluids | Low-foam lubrication and cooling component, suppresses processing foam, improves workpiece surface finish |
| Industrial Cleaning | Low-foam cleaners, high-pressure spray cleaning | Provides wetting and penetration power and detergency, maintains extremely low foam |
| Defoamer Industry | Water-based system defoamers, foam inhibitors | Core defoaming and foam suppression raw material or synergistic component |
| Textile Printing and Dyeing | Scouring agents, leveling agents, pretreatment auxiliaries | Improves fabric wetting and penetration, aids uniform dye uptake |
| Cosmetics | Creams, lotions, and other personal care products | Mild emulsification and dispersion, imparts soft skin feel |
| Pesticide Formulations | Soluble liquid (SL) adjuvants | Enhances emulsification, dispersion, wetting, and spreading, prevents foam affecting application |
| Coatings and Inks | Water-based coatings, water-based inks | Promotes pigment and filler dispersion, reduces system foam, improves leveling |
| Pharmaceuticals | Solubilizers, suppository base excipients | Solubilizes poorly soluble drugs, modulates dissolution and release characteristics |
In metalworking fluids and industrial cleaning formulations, the recommended addition amount is typically 1% to 10%, adjusted based on the foam control requirements of the specific formulation. When used as a defoamer component, it can be combined with other hydrophobic particles to enhance defoaming efficiency. When used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, ensure compliance with relevant industry purity standards.