Polyether L-62 (Poloxamer 182) is a low-foaming nonionic surfactant with a flash point above 150°C. It is non-explosive but can burn under open flame or high heat conditions, producing carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. It is chemically stable under normal storage conditions but is hygroscopic, so containers must be kept sealed to prevent moisture absorption. This product is insensitive to water quality and can withstand acids, alkalis, and hard water. However, if the temperature in the formulation exceeds its cloud point (approximately 32°C, 1% aqueous solution), it will precipitate from the water and become turbid, affecting its emulsifying, wetting, and dispersing properties. This is a physical characteristic that requires special attention during application.
From a toxicological perspective, Polyether L-62 has low acute oral toxicity (LD₅₀ greater than 2000 mg/kg) but is classified under GHS as a skin irritant (Category 2, H315), serious eye irritant (Category 2A, H319), and respiratory tract irritant (Category 3, H335). Therefore, direct contact with skin and eyes must be avoided, and inhalation of vapors or mists must be prevented. It has long-lasting effects on aquatic organisms (H412); wastewater containing this product should not be discharged directly into water bodies without treatment.
| Parameter Item | Specification/Value | Tips for Use |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow transparent liquid | Abnormal appearance may indicate product moisture or degradation |
| Ionic Type | Nonionic | Compatible with anionic, cationic, and nonionic auxiliaries; good compatibility |
| HLB Value | ~7 | Hydrophilic-lipophilic balance value; suitable as a water-in-oil (W/O) or low-foaming oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier |
| Cloud Point (1% aqueous solution) | Approximately 32°C | Operating temperature should preferably be below 32°C to maintain complete dissolution and clarity |
| Flash Point | Greater than 150°C (closed cup) | Safe for normal temperature operations, but keep away from open flames and high heat |
| pH Value (1% aqueous solution) | 5.0-7.5 | Near neutral, minimal impact on formulation acidity or alkalinity |
| Density (25°C) | 1.03~1.05 | Slightly heavier than water; will sink in water if spilled |
| Kinematic Viscosity (25°C) | Approximately 400 mm²/s | Moderate viscosity, easy for pumping and pouring; viscosity increases at low temperatures |
| Pour Point | Approximately -20°C | Remains a flowable liquid state during low-temperature storage |
According to the product database of Guoli Chemical, the core advantage of Polyether L-62 lies in its excellent low-foaming properties, especially suitable for scenarios where foam suppression is required under dynamic conditions such as spraying, high pressure, and circulation. The recommended dosage range varies by application: as a low-foaming lubricating component in metalworking fluids, generally add 0.5%~5%; as a wetting and penetrating agent in industrial low-foaming cleaners, recommend 0.2%~2%; as a core raw material or synergistic component in defoamers, the proportion can be determined based on the specific defoaming formulation design. When used in textile scouring agents and leveling agents, pay attention to the working fluid temperature not exceeding 32°C for long periods to prevent precipitation of active substances that may cause fabric stains or uneven dyeing. When used as an adjuvant in pesticide soluble concentrates (SL), its HLB value of approximately 7 is suitable for the emulsification and dispersion of lipophilic active ingredients and helps avoid excessive foam during field dilution and spraying.