Propynol ethoxylate
[CAS# 3973-18-0]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Ether compounds and their derivatives
• Name: Propynol ethoxylate
• Synonyms: 2-(Prop-2-ynyloxy)ethanol; 3-(2-Hydroxyethoxy)-1-propyne; 4-Oxa-1-hexyn-6-ol; Ethylene glycol monopropargyl ether; PME
• Molecular Formula: C₅H₈O₂
• Molecular Weight: 100.12
• CAS Registry Number: 3973-18-0
• EC Number: 223-601-1
• SMILES: C#CCOCCO

Properties

• Density: 1.0261
• Refractive index: 1.4502

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS06;GHS07;GHS08 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H302-H318-H319-H330-H332-H335-H361f-H373
• Precautionary Statements: P203-P260-P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P280-P284-P301+P317-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P305+P354+P338-P316-P317-P318-P319-P320-P330-P337+P317-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361f
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	2	H330
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Respiratory sensitization	Resp. Sens.	1	H334

Discovory and Applicatios

Propynol ethoxylate is a non-ionic surfactant derived from propynol, characterized by the addition of ethylene oxide units to the alcohol. The discovery of propynol ethoxylate arose from the need for effective surfactants in various industries, particularly in the formulation of cleaning agents, personal care products, and industrial applications. The unique structure of propynol ethoxylate combines the properties of propynol with ethylene oxide, resulting in a compound with favorable surfactant characteristics, such as enhanced solubility and surface activity.

The synthesis of propynol ethoxylate typically involves the reaction of propynol with ethylene oxide under controlled conditions. This process allows for the introduction of ethylene oxide chains to the hydroxyl group of propynol, creating a hydrophilic tail that significantly increases the compound's solubility in water and organic solvents. The resultant product is generally a clear, viscous liquid that exhibits excellent surface-active properties.

One of the primary applications of propynol ethoxylate is in the formulation of surfactants for household and industrial cleaning products. Its ability to reduce surface tension makes it effective in breaking down and removing dirt, grease, and oils, enhancing the performance of detergents and cleaners. In personal care formulations, propynol ethoxylate is utilized as an emulsifier and solubilizer, allowing for the stable mixing of oil and water phases in creams, lotions, and shampoos. This property is particularly valuable in the cosmetic industry, where product aesthetics and texture are crucial for consumer satisfaction.

Additionally, propynol ethoxylate finds applications in the agricultural sector as a wetting agent and dispersant for pesticides and herbicides. By improving the spreading and adhesion of these active ingredients on plant surfaces, propynol ethoxylate enhances the efficacy of agrochemical formulations, leading to better crop protection and yield. The surfactant properties of propynol ethoxylate also make it suitable for use in various industrial processes, including textile treatment and paper manufacturing, where it can improve the performance of coatings and finishes.

Moreover, propynol ethoxylate has been explored for its potential in the development of biodegradable surfactants. As environmental concerns grow, the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is increasing. Propynol ethoxylate can serve as a building block for formulating biodegradable surfactants, contributing to a more sustainable approach to chemical manufacturing.

In summary, the discovery and development of propynol ethoxylate underscore its significance as a versatile surfactant with applications in cleaning, personal care, agriculture, and industrial processes. Its unique properties derived from the combination of propynol and ethylene oxide continue to meet the diverse needs of various industries.