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DESCRIPTION
Polyoxyl castor oil is a modified form of castor oil where the oil undergoes a chemical process to increase its water solubility.
This modification involves adding ethylene oxide to the castor oil, resulting in a compound that can function as an emulsifier, surfactant, or solubilizer in various formulations.
Cas Number
61791-12-6
SYNONYMS
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil,Polyethylene Glycol Castor Oil,Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Polyethylene Glycol Derivative, Castor Oil, Polyethylene Glycol Ether,Polyoxyethylene Castor Oil
Overview of Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil (POC)
Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil (POC) is a modified form of castor oil that undergoes ethoxylation, a process where ethylene oxide molecules are added to the hydroxyl groups of the castor oil molecule.
This modification enhances its solubility and functionality in a wide range of applications. POC is primarily used as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, stabilizer, and dispersant.
Historical Development and Origin
The history of castor oil dates back to ancient civilizations, but the process of ethoxylation to produce POC became more widely adopted in the 20th century.
The discovery of ethoxylation as a means to enhance the properties of natural oils provided a new avenue for creating effective industrial chemicals.
Significance in the Industrial and Pharmaceutical Sectors
POC has become integral to several industries, particularly pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and agriculture.
Its ability to modify the properties of other substances, such as oils and polymers, makes it an essential ingredient in many formulations.
Basic Chemical Structure and Properties
The basic chemical structure of POC consists of castor oil molecules with ethoxy groups (–CH2CH2O–) attached to the hydroxyl groups of the ricinoleic acid component of the oil.
The degree of ethoxylation, or the number of ethylene oxide units added, determines the properties of POC, such as its solubility, hydrophilicity, and emulsification capacity.
Chemical Structure and Synthesis
Detailed Chemical Structure of Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil
The primary component of POC is ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid with an alcohol group on the 12th carbon.
Upon ethoxylation, this hydroxyl group reacts with ethylene oxide molecules to form a polyether chain.
The structure of POC varies based on the length of the polyether chain (the degree of ethoxylation).
Process of Ethoxylation and Its Effect on the Properties of Castor Oil
Ethoxylation is a controlled reaction in which ethylene oxide (EO) reacts with the hydroxyl group of the castor oil.
The process typically involves heating the castor oil in the presence of an alkaline catalyst and applying pressure to introduce ethylene oxide.
The result is the formation of polyoxyethylated derivatives with varying molecular weights, affecting their hydrophobicity, solubility, and interaction with other substances.
Reaction Mechanism for Polyoxyethylation
The mechanism involves the nucleophilic attack of the hydroxyl group of castor oil on ethylene oxide.
The ethylene oxide is then incorporated into the chain, creating polyoxyethylene groups.
The reaction is usually carried out at temperatures between 130°C to 160°C under controlled pressures.
Variations in Molecular Weight and Ethoxylation Degree
The degree of ethoxylation directly influences the physical properties of POC.
Higher degrees of ethoxylation generally result in higher hydrophilicity and solubility in water, while lower degrees of ethoxylation lead to greater hydrophobicity, making POC more suitable for oil-based applications.
Properties of Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil
Physical and Chemical Properties
Solubility: POC is amphiphilic, meaning it has both hydrophilic (water-loving) and hydrophobic (oil-loving) parts, which makes it soluble in both polar and non-polar solvents depending on the degree of ethoxylation.
Melting Point and Density: The melting point and density of POC vary based on the molecular weight and degree of ethoxylation.
Typically, POC with a higher ethoxylation degree has a lower melting point and is more fluid.
Stability: POC is relatively stable in a wide range of pH conditions and has a good shelf life under proper storage conditions.
However, it may degrade when exposed to strong acids, bases, or prolonged heat.
Surface Activity and Role as a Surfactant
POC acts as a nonionic surfactant, reducing surface tension between different phases, which is crucial for emulsification and stabilizing dispersions in water and oil mixtures.
It facilitates the formation of stable emulsions in pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic formulations.
Rheological Properties (Viscosity and Flow Behavior)
The viscosity of POC solutions is dependent on the concentration of POC and the degree of ethoxylation.
POC with a higher degree of ethoxylation tends to have lower viscosity, making it easier to incorporate into liquid formulations.
Stability and Shelf-Life Under Various Conditions
POC is relatively stable under ambient conditions but can undergo hydrolysis or oxidation over time, especially in the presence of light, oxygen, or extreme pH.
The stability of POC is enhanced by controlling the degree of ethoxylation and proper formulation practices.
Comparative Analysis with Other Surfactants
POC is compared with other nonionic surfactants, such as Tween 80 and PEG (Polyethylene Glycol).
POC’s primary advantage lies in its natural origin and biodegradability, but it may not always be as effective in low-temperature or highly acidic environments compared to synthetic surfactants.
Applications in Industry
Pharmaceutical Industry
Emulsifier and Stabilizer in Drug Formulations: POC is used in pharmaceutical formulations to emulsify oils and stabilize drugs in aqueous solutions.
It is commonly found in injectable solutions, suspensions, and creams.
Use in Intravenous Solutions: Due to its biocompatibility, POC is employed as a solubilizing agent for poorly soluble drugs, making them injectable.
Topical Formulations: POC is also used in topical ointments and lotions for its moisturizing and emulsifying properties.
Food Industry
As a Food Emulsifier and Stabilizer: POC is used to stabilize food products by promoting uniform distribution of fat in water-based solutions, such as in salad dressings, ice cream, and baked goods.
Regulatory Considerations and Safety Guidelines: Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA have established permissible limits for POC in food products, ensuring its safety for human consumption.
Cosmetic and Personal Care Products
Emulsifying Agent in Creams, Lotions, and Shampoos: In cosmetics, POC acts as a stabilizer for emulsions, ensuring the smooth texture and consistent performance of the product.
It is widely used in skin moisturizers and hair care products.
Skin Penetration and Cosmetic Effects: POC has been shown to improve the absorption of active ingredients in skincare formulations due to its ability to penetrate the skin's lipid barrier.
Agricultural Applications
Use in Pesticides, Herbicides, and Fertilizers: POC is employed in the formulation of agrochemicals as a dispersing agent, helping to improve the stability and effectiveness of pesticide formulations.
Environmental Impact and Biodegradability: Unlike synthetic surfactants, POC is biodegradable and less harmful to the environment, making it a preferred choice in eco-friendly agricultural products.
Other Industrial Uses
Textile Industry: POC is used in the textile industry as a softener and surfactant for treating fabrics.
Paints and Coatings: POC helps in the dispersion of pigments and provides stability to emulsions in paints and coatings.
Polymers and Plasticizers: POC serves as a dispersing agent in polymer production and as a plasticizer to modify the flexibility of plastics.
Regulatory Framework
Approval and Regulations by Health and Safety Agencies (FDA, EPA)
POC is approved by regulatory bodies such as the FDA for use in pharmaceuticals and food products, and by the EPA for agricultural applications.
These agencies regulate the types of formulations in which POC can be used and set limits on its concentration in consumer products.
Food and Drug Administration Standards for Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil Use
The FDA has established safety guidelines for the use of POC in food and drug products.
POC must meet certain purity criteria, and formulations containing POC are subject to rigorous testing for safety and efficacy.
Environmental Regulations and Sustainability Concerns
Due to its natural origin and biodegradability, POC is considered an environmentally friendly alternative to other synthetic surfactants.
Regulatory bodies are focusing on promoting the use of biodegradable surfactants like POC to reduce environmental impact.
Industry Best Practices for Safe Use and Labeling
Industries that use POC must follow best practices for its safe use, including proper storage, handling, and labeling. Products containing POC should include clear information about its concentration and safety precautions.
Recent Research and Advancements
New Trends in the Synthesis of Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil
Research is exploring more efficient synthesis methods for POC that reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact.
Innovations also focus on producing POC with a more tailored degree of ethoxylation to enhance its functionality in specific applications.
Innovations in Applications (e.g., Nanotechnology, Drug Delivery Systems)
POC has been investigated for use in advanced drug delivery systems, including nanocarriers, to enhance the bioavailability and controlled release of therapeutic agents.
Ongoing Studies on Safety, Biodegradability, and Eco-friendliness
Studies continue to evaluate the biodegradability of POC in various environmental conditions, focusing on its long-term environmental impact and the potential for reduced toxicity in aquatic ecosystems.
Future Directions for the Compound in Industrial and Pharmaceutical Applications
Future research is likely to focus on expanding the use of POC in newer, more sustainable formulations and exploring its potential in areas like gene delivery, nanomedicine, and bio-based industrial processes.
Summary of Key Points
Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil is a versatile and eco-friendly compound with wide applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and agriculture.
Its properties, such as its emulsification capacity and low toxicity, make it valuable in these sectors.
Challenges and Areas for Further Research
Despite its widespread use, challenges remain in optimizing its synthesis, enhancing its performance in extreme conditions, and ensuring its environmental safety.
Ongoing research is addressing these gaps.
The Role of Polyoxyethylated Castor Oil in Modern Industry
POC is expected to continue playing a significant role in diverse industries, with emerging applications in biotechnology and nanotechnology contributing to its evolving role in the global economy.
SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT POLYOXYL CASTOR OIL
First aid measures:
Description of first aid measures:
General advice:
Consult a physician.
Show this safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
Move out of dangerous area:
If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air.
If not breathing, give artificial respiration.
Consult a physician.
In case of skin contact:
Take off contaminated clothing and shoes immediately.
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
Consult a physician.
In case of eye contact:
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician.
Continue rinsing eyes during transport to hospital.
If swallowed:
Do NOT induce vomiting.
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Rinse mouth with water.
Consult a physician.
Firefighting measures:
Extinguishing media:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas
Advice for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental release measures:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
Use personal protective equipment.
Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas.
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste.
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
Handling and storage:
Precautions for safe handling:
Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
Storage class (TRGS 510): 8A: Combustible, corrosive hazardous materials
Exposure controls/personal protection:
Control parameters:
Components with workplace control parameters
Contains no substances with occupational exposure limit values.
Exposure controls:
Appropriate engineering controls:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice.
Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
Personal protective equipment:
Eye/face protection:
Tightly fitting safety goggles.
Faceshield (8-inch minimum).
Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
Skin protection:
Handle with gloves.
Gloves must be inspected prior to use.
Use proper glove
removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product.
Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices.
Wash and dry hands.
Full contact:
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
Splash contact
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
It should not be construed as offering an approval for any specific use scenario.
Body Protection:
Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Respiratory protection:
Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a fullface respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls.
If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator.
Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Control of environmental exposure
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Stability and reactivity:
Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents:
Hazardous decomposition products:
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions.
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas.
Disposal considerations:
Waste treatment methods:
Product:
Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company.
Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
Contaminated packaging:
Dispose of as unused product
