Emulsifier (Emulgator)
Emulsifier is a nonionic surfactant belonging to the family of Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs), specifically with an average of 9 ethylene oxide (EO) units. It is widely used as an effective emulsifying, wetting, dispersing, and solubilizing agent. NP-9 is typically a pale yellow to amber viscous liquid, soluble in water and various organic solvents. It is valued for its strong emulsifying ability to stabilize oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions, excellent detergency, and good compatibility with other surfactants and formulation ingredients. NP-9 is commonly employed in industrial, agricultural, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and cleaning applications.
Emulsifier (Emulgator) Uses
Primary Uses
- Industrial & Household Cleaning
- Used in detergents, degreasers, and all-purpose cleaners for its excellent emulsifying and wetting properties.
- Enhances soil removal by dispersing oily and particulate matter in aqueous cleaning solutions.
- Stabilizes formulations in heavy-duty liquid detergents and automatic dishwashing liquids.
- Agriculture
- Serves as an emulsifier and dispersant in pesticide and herbicide formulations to improve spray uniformity and active ingredient distribution.
- Enhances wetting and spreading properties on leaf surfaces, improving efficacy.
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Employed in creams, lotions, shampoos, and other personal care products to stabilize emulsions and improve texture and consistency.
- Improves the solubilization of hydrophobic ingredients, fragrances, and oils.
- Enhances product spreadability and sensory feel on the skin.
- Pharmaceuticals
- Used in topical creams, ointments, and gels as an emulsifier to ensure stable dispersion of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
- Facilitates controlled release and bioavailability by maintaining stable formulations.
- Paints, Coatings & Adhesives
- Acts as an emulsifier and dispersant to improve stability and texture in waterborne paints and coatings.
- Helps maintain uniform particle size distribution in latex and emulsion polymers.
Secondary Uses
- Textile Industry
- Used as a wetting and emulsifying agent during dyeing and finishing processes to improve dye uptake and uniformity.
- Rubber & Plastics
- Applied as a dispersant and emulsifier in polymerization and compounding processes.
- Metalworking Fluids
Stabilizes emulsions in cutting oils and metalworking fluids to improve cooling and lubricating performance.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Nonylphenol, ethoxylated with ~9 EO units
- Common/Trade Name: Emulsifier NP-9, Emulgator NP-9
- CAS Number: 9016-45-9 (for nonylphenol ethoxylates generally)
- HS Code: 3402.19.00
- Molecular Formula: Variable (C15H24O + EO)n (depends on EO units)
- Synonyms:
- Nonylphenol Polyethoxylate (9 EO)
- NP-9
- Nonylphenol Ethoxylate 9
- Polyethylene glycol nonylphenyl ether
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid
- Odor: Mild phenolic odor
- pH (1% aqueous solution): Typically 6–8 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Solubility: Soluble in water and various organic solvents (alcohols, glycols)
- Stability: Stable under normal storage; sensitive to strong acids and bases
- Cloud Point: Approx. 60–65°C (varies with concentration)
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous but may cause skin and eye irritation
- Toxicity: Moderate; avoid prolonged exposure
- Exposure Limits: Not specifically established
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight and oxidizers
- Container Type: Polyethylene drums or containers with tight seals
- Shelf Life: Typically 12–24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation of vapors and skin/eye contact
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status: Subject to environmental and safety regulations due to nonylphenol component (some restrictions in certain regions)
- REACH Registration: Registered but usage restrictions apply in EU for environmental concerns
- FDA Status: Not generally used in food products; cosmetic and industrial uses only
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Slowly biodegradable; concerns over persistence in aquatic environments
- Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic organisms; use with caution to avoid environmental release
- Bioaccumulation: Potential for bioaccumulation due to nonylphenol content
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic; some environmental toxicity concerns
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required:
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Protective clothing (lab coat or apron)
- Adequate ventilation or respirator if vapors are present
Handling Guidelines:
- Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of vapors
- Prevent skin and eye contact; wash thoroughly after handling
- Avoid spills and release into environment
Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly closed
- Store away from strong oxidizers and heat sources
- Protect from freezing and direct sunlight
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands and exposed skin after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling the chemical
- Clean equipment and surfaces regularly to prevent residue buildup
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move affected person to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms develop
- Skin Contact: Wash with plenty of soap and water; remove contaminated clothing; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present; seek medical attention if irritation continues
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; can release toxic fumes when burned
- Extinguishing Media: Foam, dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide (CO₂), water spray
- Special Precautions: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective gear
- Decomposition Products: May emit carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, phenolic compounds, and other toxic gases upon combustion