Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate 10 Product Description
Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate 10 (NPE 10) is a non-ionic surfactant derived from the ethoxylation of nonyl phenol. It is characterized by its excellent wetting, emulsifying, and dispersing properties, making it a versatile ingredient in various industrial and consumer applications. NPE 10 is commonly used in formulations for cleaning products, agricultural chemicals, and personal care items due to its ability to enhance the solubility of hydrophobic substances in water.
This surfactant is particularly effective in breaking down oils and greases, making it a popular choice in formulations for heavy-duty cleaners and degreasers. Additionally, its low toxicity and biodegradability make it a more environmentally friendly option compared to other surfactants. However, it is important to handle NPE 10 with care, as it can be harmful to aquatic life in concentrated forms.
Uses of Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate 10
- Industrial Cleaning: Used in formulations for heavy-duty cleaners, degreasers, and industrial detergents.
- Agricultural Applications: Acts as a wetting agent and emulsifier in pesticide formulations, enhancing the effectiveness of active ingredients.
- Personal Care Products: Utilized in shampoos, conditioners, and other cosmetic formulations for its emulsifying properties.
- Textile Industry: Employed in textile processing for wetting and dispersing agents.
- Paints and Coatings: Used to improve the stability and application properties of paints and coatings.
Technical Data Details
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate 10 |
| CAS Number | 9016-45-9 |
| Molecular Weight | 250-300 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear to yellowish liquid |
| pH (1% solution) | 6.0 – 8.0 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Flash Point | > 100 °C |
| Density | 1.0 – 1.1 g/cm³ |
| Viscosity | 100 – 500 cP |
| Biodegradability | Biodegradable |
| Toxicity | Low toxicity; harmful to aquatic life |
Key Features
- Non-ionic Surfactant: Compatible with both anionic and cationic surfactants.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for a wide range of formulations across various industries.
- Environmental Considerations: Biodegradable and lower toxicity compared to other surfactants.
Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) are produced through the ethoxylation of nonylphenol (NP) using ethylene oxide (EO) in the presence of a catalyst. Here’s an overview of the process:
1. Raw Materials:
- Nonylphenol (NP): Derived from phenol and nonene.
- Ethylene Oxide (EO): A gaseous epoxide used for ethoxylation.
- Catalyst: Typically, an alkaline catalyst such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), or boron trifluoride (BF₃).
2. Process Steps:
Step 1: Preparation of Nonylphenol
- Nonylphenol is obtained via alkylation of phenol with nonene (C9H18) in the presence of an acid catalyst such as sulfuric acid or a Lewis acid.
Step 2: Ethoxylation Reaction
- The nonylphenol is placed in a reactor under controlled temperature and pressure.
- Ethylene oxide (EO) is gradually added under inert atmosphere (usually nitrogen).
- The reaction is conducted at 130–180°C under a pressure of 3–6 bar.
- A base catalyst (e.g., NaOH, KOH) is added to promote the reaction.
- The number of ethylene oxide molecules added (moles of EO per mole of NP) determines the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) of the final NPE.
Step 3: Neutralization and Purification
- The reaction mixture is neutralized (if an alkaline catalyst was used).
- Excess EO and unreacted materials are removed by vacuum stripping.
- The final product is filtered and cooled.
3. Variability in NPEs
- The degree of ethoxylation (e.g., NPE-4, NPE-9, NPE-40) determines the properties of the surfactant.
- Low EO (4–6 moles) → More hydrophobic, used in detergents and emulsifiers.
- High EO (10–40 moles) → More hydrophilic, used in industrial cleaning and agriculture.
4. Applications
- Detergents & emulsifiers
- Paints and coatings
- Textile processing
- Industrial cleaners
5. Environmental Concerns
- NPEs degrade into nonylphenol (NP), which is toxic and an endocrine disruptor.
- Many regions (EU, Canada, some U.S. states) have restricted or banned NPEs.
- Alternatives like alcohol ethoxylates (AEs) are being used as replacements.
Would you like help with specific reaction conditions or alternatives to NPEs?
Conclusion
Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate 10 is a highly effective surfactant with a broad range of applications in industrial cleaning, agriculture, personal care, and more. Its favorable properties, combined with its environmental profile, make it a valuable ingredient in many formulations. However, users should always follow safety guidelines and regulations when handling and using this chemical.