Surfactants
REACH
Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate
CAS Number
68412-54-4
EC Number
932-688-1
What is Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate?
Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate (CAS 68412-54-4), commonly abbreviated as NPE, is a nonionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating nonylphenol to varying degrees.
Where is Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate used?
- Industrial and institutional cleaning: primary surfactant in hard surface cleaners, degreasers, and heavy-duty detergents for robust soil removal
- Textile processing: wetting and scouring agent
- Agricultural formulations: emulsifier and dispersant in pesticide and herbicide concentrates, improving active ingredient stability and spray coverage
- Coatings and adhesives: dispersant for pigments and fillers, and emulsifier in latex systems
- During fiber preparation, dyeing, and finishing operations, it promotes uniform chemical penetration.
Commercial specifications
- Common ethoxylation levels range from NP-4 to NP-40 to suit specific HLB requirements
- Bulk supply is standard in drums and IBC containers
Other Names (Synonyms)
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), α-(nonylphenyl)-ω-hydroxy-, branched
What are the physical properties of Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate?
Melting Point 46-47 °C(lit.)
Boiling Point 250 °C(lit.)
Density 1.053 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)
Flash Point >230 °F
Color Colourless
Form Oil to Thick Oil
Water Solubility 4.55mg/L at 20℃
Vapor Pressure 0.043Pa at 20℃
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.508(lit.)
Log P 5.39 at 20℃
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Nonyl Phenol Ethoxylate?
HS Code 3402130000
UN Number 3082
ADR Class 9
Packing Group III
Storage Class 10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany) 2