Question

Is the solubilizer S-15 harmful to the human body? Does it have an impact on the environment?

Answer
2026-06-06 官方文档 增溶剂S-15

The solubilizer S-15 is a low-toxicity, low-irritation non-hazardous chemical with extremely low safety risk to humans and good environmental compatibility, making it a green and environmentally friendly surfactant.

Detailed Description

The solubilizer S-15 (PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil) is a non-ionic surfactant derived from natural hydrogenated castor oil. According to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) classification standard, this product is not classified as a hazardous substance or mixture, with no signal word, no hazard pictograms, and no hazard statements, and is safe for humans under normal conditions of use.

From a toxicological perspective, the acute oral toxicity LD₅₀ of the solubilizer S-15 in rats is greater than 2000 mg/kg, which does not fall into the acute toxicity category, meaning that even if accidentally ingested, a considerable dose would be required to cause harm. In terms of skin safety, based on OECD 404 test data, this product is non-irritating to the skin; the OECD 406 guinea pig maximization test results show that it is not sensitizing and does not cause skin allergic reactions. The only thing to note is that eye contact may cause mild temporary discomfort, but it does not meet the hazard classification criteria, and rinsing promptly if accidentally splashed into the eyes is sufficient.

In terms of the environment, the solubilizer S-15 exhibits excellent eco-friendly characteristics. Its acute toxicity to aquatic organisms is extremely low—the 96-hour LC₅₀ for fish is greater than 100 mg/L, and the 48-hour EC₅₀ for daphnia is greater than 100 mg/L, categorizing it as essentially harmless to aquatic life. More importantly, under the OECD 301B standard, the 28-day biodegradation rate of this product exceeds 60%, making it readily biodegradable and not persistent in the natural environment. Additionally, its octanol/water partition coefficient (log Kow) is less than 3, indicating no significant bioaccumulation potential and no enrichment or amplification through the food chain.

Technical Parameters

Human Health Safety Indicators
Acute Toxicity (Oral LD₅₀ in Rats)> 2000 mg/kg (Non-acute toxicity category)
Skin Corrosion/IrritationNon-irritating (OECD 404)
Eye Damage/IrritationMay cause mild temporary discomfort (Does not meet hazard classification criteria)
Skin SensitizationNegative, non-sensitizing (OECD 406)
Mutagenicity/Carcinogenicity/Reproductive ToxicityNo classification in any category
Environmental Safety Indicators
Acute Toxicity to Fish (96h LC₅₀)> 100 mg/L
Acute Toxicity to Daphnia (48h EC₅₀)> 100 mg/L
Biodegradability (OECD 301B, 28 days)> 60% (Readily biodegradable)
Bioaccumulation Potential (log Kow)< 3 (No significant bioaccumulation potential)
Physical Hazards
Flash Point (Closed Cup Method)> 100°C (No risk of flammability or explosion under normal conditions)

Application Recommendations

Given the excellent safety and environmental properties of the solubilizer S-15, it can be confidently applied in the following fields:

  • Personal Care Products: Used as a solubilizer for fragrances and essential oils in transparent shampoos, body washes, toners, and other products that come into direct contact with the skin, being mild and non-irritating.
  • Pesticide Formulations: Acts as a solubilizer and emulsifier in emulsifiable concentrates, emulsion concentrates, and microemulsions, aligning with the development direction of green pesticide adjuvants.
  • Industrial Cleaning: Used in hard surface cleaners to solubilize hydrophobic soils, with low environmental impact when discharged after use.
  • Textile Dyeing and Finishing: Serves as a leveling agent and dispersing aid; this product can be rapidly degraded in processing wastewater, reducing the load on terminal wastewater treatment.

Precautions

  • Although the product has a high safety rating, it is still recommended to follow good industrial hygiene practices and wear chemical safety goggles and protective gloves during operation.
  • If accidentally splashed into the eyes, immediately rinse gently with plenty of clean water for at least 15 minutes; if wearing contact lenses, remove them and continue rinsing. Seek medical attention if eye discomfort persists.
  • Avoid prolonged skin contact or ingestion; thoroughly wash hands and any contacted skin after operation.
  • Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, recommended temperature 5°C to 40°C, away from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases.
  • Although this product is readily biodegradable, in case of a large spill, containment measures should be taken to prevent direct discharge into sewers or natural water bodies.