Understanding Non-Ionic Surfactants: Types and Applications

In the world of surfactants, non-ionic surfactants stand out due to their unique properties and versatile applications. These surfactants do not ionize in water or aqueous solutions, which distinguishes them from ionic surfactants. Here, we'll dive into the various types of non-ionic surfactants and their specific uses across different industries.

Polyoxyethylene Derivatives

Polyoxyethylene Alcohol Ether (AEO)

One of the most widely used non-ionic surfactants, AEOs are created by condensing polyethylene glycol with fatty alcohols. These surfactants, such as the Brij series, are excellent for oil-in-water (O/W) emulsification.

Example: Cetearath-10 (CETEARETH-10) is a white waxy substance used in various emulsification processes, with a high HLB value of 12.9.

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Polyoxyethylene Alkylphenol Ether (APEO)

APEOs, like the TX or OP series, are known for their superior water solubility and stability in both acidic and alkaline conditions, making them essential in high-performance detergents and textile auxiliaries.

Example:?Nonoxynol-10 (NONOXYNOL-10) is a versatile clear liquid with an HLB value of 13.3, used extensively in multiple applications.

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Polyol Polyoxyethylene Ether Fatty Acid Ester (Tween Series)

Represented by polyoxyethylene sorbitan esters, these surfactants are known for their strong hydrophilicity due to their rich hydrophilic groups. They are commonly used in emulsification, dispersion, and solubilization.

Example:?Polysorbate 20 (T-20) is a yellow viscous liquid that serves multiple functions in various formulations.

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Fatty Acid Methyl Ester Ethoxylates (FMEE)

Produced by the addition reaction of fatty acid methyl esters with ethylene oxide, FMEEs offer superior stability, particularly in acidic and alkaline conditions. They are characterized by low foam, high cloud point, and excellent washing and dispersing properties, making them a valuable choice in industrial cleaning agents.

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Alkyl Alcohol Amides

Derived from the condensation of fatty acids with monoethanolamine (MEA) or diethanolamine (DEA), alkyl alcohol amides are crucial for their high stability in acidic and alkaline environments and their strong wetting and emulsifying capabilities. When mixed with soaps, they significantly enhance foaming power, detergency, and hard water resistance.

Example: Cocamide DEA (COCAMIDE DEA) is a colorless viscous liquid known for its excellent foaming, foam stabilization, and antistatic properties.

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Polyol Mono Fatty Acid Esters

These surfactants, including glycerol fatty acid esters and sorbitan esters, are produced by esterification of polyols with fatty acids. They are notable for their long carbon chain from the fatty acids and the hydroxyl groups from the unesterified polyols, providing both hydrophilic and lipophilic properties.

Example: Glyceryl Stearate (GLYCERYL STEARATE) is a white, waxy substance widely used as an emulsifier, co-emulsifier, and skin conditioning agent.

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Sugar Esters

Known for their excellent biodegradability and non-toxic nature, sugar esters are synthesized by esterifying sucrose with fatty acids. They are widely utilized as emulsifiers and low-foam detergent components in food and cosmetic products.

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Non-ionic surfactants are invaluable in various industries due to their unique properties and extensive functionalities. From enhancing emulsification to providing superior detergency, these surfactants play a critical role in ensuring product performance and stability across multiple applications.

Witschem provides nonionic, cationic and anionic surfactants for various industries. Welcome to contact us.

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