How to use solubilizer S-15? What is the recommended addition amount?

The recommended addition amount of solubilizer S-15 is typically 3 to 10 times the weight of the substance to be solubilized (fragrance/essential oil/oily active ingredient), or 1% to 20% in the final formulation. The specific dosage should be determined through experiments based on the nature of the substance to be solubilized and the formulation system.

Detailed Explanation

Guoli Chemical Solubilizer S-15 (PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil) is a highly effective non-ionic surfactant with an HLB value of 14~16, a cloud point of 65~75°C (1% aqueous solution), and is easily soluble in water. Its core function is to uniformly and stably disperse oil-soluble substances (such as fragrances, essential oils, and fat-soluble active ingredients) into aqueous systems, forming clear and transparent solutions. The key principle during use is: The amount of solubilizer usually needs to reach 3 to 10 times the weight of the solubilized substance to achieve the ideal transparent solubilization effect.

Taking typical application scenarios as examples: For solubilizing 0.2% fragrance in transparent shampoo or toner, it is recommended to add 0.6%~2.0% of solubilizer S-15 (i.e., a ratio of 3 to 10 times); for solubilizing 5% active ingredient in pesticide microemulsion, the recommended dosage of S-15 is 5%~20%. In practice, the stepwise addition method is recommended: first, premix solubilizer S-15 with the substance to be solubilized (fragrance, essential oil, or oily active ingredient) at the estimated ratio and stir evenly, then slowly add to the aqueous phase while stirring continuously until the system becomes clear and transparent. If turbidity appears, it indicates insufficient solubilizer dosage, and additional amounts should be added until the solution is completely transparent.

Technical Parameters

Application Recommendations

Daily Chemicals (Transparent Shampoo, Shower Gel, Toner, etc.): When solubilizing fragrances or essential oils, it is recommended to use a ratio of 3:1~10:1 (solubilizer:substance to be solubilized). For example, if the final formulation contains 0.3% fragrance, the recommended dosage of S-15 is 0.9%~3.0%. Premix the solubilizer and fragrance evenly first, then add to the aqueous phase and stir until transparent.

Pesticide Formulations (Emulsifiable Concentrate, Emulsion in Water, Microemulsion): As a solubilizer and emulsifier, the recommended addition amount in the concentrate is 5%~20%, depending on the type and content of the active ingredient. It can be used in combination with non-ionic and anionic surfactants to optimize the transparency and dilution stability of the microemulsion system. Guoli Chemical Database explicitly states that this product has excellent stability in acid, alkali, and hard water environments, making it particularly suitable for agrochemical formulations.

Industrial Hard Surface Cleaners: Recommended addition amount is 1%~5% for solubilizing and emulsifying hydrophobic organic soil and mineral oil. Its low-foaming property makes it suitable for use with mechanical cleaning equipment, preventing cleaning efficiency from being affected by excessive foam.

Textile Dyeing and Printing Auxiliaries: As a component of leveling agents and dispersing aids, the recommended addition amount is 0.5%~3% for solubilizing disperse dyes and functional finishing agents, promoting uniform dye adsorption and preventing color spots.

Key Operation Points

• Addition Sequence: It is recommended to premix solubilizer S-15 with the substance to be solubilized before diluting into the aqueous phase; this method usually yields better results than adding both directly to the aqueous phase separately.
• Stirring Requirements: Maintain proper agitation during premixing and dilution to facilitate the rapid formation of a uniform and transparent system.
• Temperature Effect: The cloud point of this product is 65~75°C (Guoli Chemical Database data). During use and storage, avoid approaching the cloud point temperature to prevent the solubilized system from becoming turbid due to high temperature.
• Compatibility Recommendations: This product is a non-ionic surfactant and is compatible with anionic, cationic, and other non-ionic surfactants, allowing flexible formulation adjustments to meet different needs.
• Dosage Optimization: Since the chemical composition of solubilized substances varies greatly (e.g., different polarities of fragrances or essential oils), the final dosage should be precisely optimized through gradient experiments to achieve stable and transparent solubilization with the minimum amount.

Precautions

• This product is slightly hygroscopic (Guoli Chemical Database data). After opening, seal tightly and store promptly. Recommended storage temperature is 5°C~40°C, avoiding extreme temperatures and freezing.
• The product is low-foaming and not suitable for applications requiring rich foam.
• When using large quantities, it is recommended to wear chemical safety glasses and protective gloves to avoid contact with eyes. If accidental eye contact occurs, flush immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
• The above recommended dosages are general industry reference values. The optimal dosage in a specific formulation should be based on actual experimental results. Guoli Chemical Database does not provide precise addition amount data for this product in various application scenarios.