Question

Precautions for using polyether L-63?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 聚醚L-63

Polyether L-63 is an actually non-toxic, non-hazardous product, but basic industrial hygiene practices must still be followed, with emphasis on eye protection and ventilation.

Detailed Description

Polyether L-63 (a poloxamer-type nonionic surfactant) has been tested according to OECD toxicology guidelines, with an oral LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg, classifying it as actually non-toxic. It is non-irritating to the skin and is a non-flammable liquid (flash point >220°C), making it an overall safe chemical raw material. Nevertheless, it may cause mild temporary eye irritation during handling, so eye protection is the most critical protective measure when using this product. According to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from Guoli Chemical, this product has no GHS hazard classification, no signal word, and no pictogram requirements.

In daily operation, polyether L-63 should be used in a well-ventilated area, and qualified chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile gloves) and chemical safety goggles should be worn. Although respiratory protection is not required under normal ventilation conditions, it is recommended to wear an organic vapor filter respirator during large-scale handling or in confined spaces. After handling, hands and exposed skin must be thoroughly washed immediately. Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited during work, and work clothes should not be taken out of the workplace.

In the event of a spill, personnel should wear full protective equipment and collect the spilled liquid using inert absorbent materials (e.g., sand, vermiculite), preventing it from entering drainage systems or soil. If accidental eye contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water for several minutes, following the P305+P351+P338 first aid guidelines. If irritation persists, seek medical attention promptly.

Storage and Emergency Parameters

ItemTechnical Requirements
Storage Temperature5–40°C (avoid freezing and high temperatures)
Container MaterialCarbon steel, stainless steel, or specific plastic containers
Incompatible SubstancesKeep away from strong oxidizers and strong acids
Packaging Specifications50kg plastic drum, 200kg plastic drum, IBC tote
Fire Extinguishing MediaDry powder, carbon dioxide, alcohol-resistant foam, or water mist (avoid concentrated water jet)

Application Recommendations

Polyether L-63 is mainly used as a polyol component in polyurethane high-resilience flexible foam, self-skinning foam, semi-rigid foam, microcellular elastomers, and polyurethane adhesives and coatings. Cold-cure molding is its core application, providing excellent resilience and comfort to products such as automotive seats and furniture cushioning. After long-term storage (e.g., beyond the shelf life), it is recommended to sample and test key indicators such as hydroxyl value (54–58 mgKOH/g), moisture content (≤0.05%), and pH value (5.0–7.0 for a 1% aqueous solution) before use.

Precautions

  • Hands must be thoroughly washed after handling; the eyes are the primary risk organ for exposure; immediate eye first aid procedures should be followed in case of accidental contact.
  • Although the product is a non-flammable liquid, it may produce harmful gases upon decomposition at high temperatures; storage and use should be kept away from high heat sources.
  • Waste should be incinerated or chemically treated at licensed waste disposal facilities in accordance with national and local regulations; do not discharge directly into soil or public water bodies.
  • Do not store with food, feed, or pharmaceuticals; keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture or contamination.