Nonionic Surfactant Wholesale
Flavors & Fragrances 2025-03-02
Definition & Structure
Nonionic Surfactants are amphiphilic molecules featuring:
- Hydrophilic Head: Uncharged polar groups (e.g., ether, hydroxyl)
- Common moieties: Polyoxyethylene (PEG), polyols, glycosides
- Hydrophobic Tail: Alkyl/aryl chains (e.g., C8–C18)
Key Feature:
- No ionization in water → pH-independent stability
Classification & Examples
| Type | Structure | Example Compounds |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Ethoxylates | R-O-(CH₂CH₂O)ₙH | Laureth-7, Steareth-10 |
| Alkyl Phenol Ethoxylates | R-Ph-O-(CH₂CH₂O)ₙH | Nonoxynol-9 (NPE) |
| Fatty Acid Esters | R-COO-(CH₂CH₂O)ₙH | PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil |
| Alkyl Polyglucosides | R-O-(Glucose)ₙ | Decyl Glucoside (APG) |
Key Properties
| Property | Advantage | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Low Foaming | Ideal for dishwashing/industrial cleaners | Ross-Miles test |
| High Emulsification | Stabilizes oil/water interfaces | HLB system (Griffin method) |
| Chemical Stability | Resists hard water/pH changes | Turbidity point measurement |
| Biodegradability | Eco-friendly (e.g., APGs) | OECD 301/310 |
Applications
| Industry | Function | Example Use |
|---|---|---|
| Home Care | Low-foaming detergents | Machine dishwasher liquids |
| Agriculture | Pesticide emulsifiers | Glyphosate formulations |
| Cosmetics | Mild emulsifiers | Ceteareth-20 in creams |
| Textiles | Dye leveling agents | Fatty alcohol ethoxylates |
Disclaimer:
The above content is for reference and communication only among industry insiders, and does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. According to relevant laws and regulations and the regulations of this website, units or individuals who purchase related items should obtain valid qualifications and qualification conditions.
