Non-ionic surfactants

Non-ionic surfactants – characteristics and properties

Non-ionic surfactants are part of a large group of surface-active compounds called surfactants. They are characterised by a unique amphiphilic structure, which determines all their properties and applications. Non-ionic surfactants include a large number of synthetic chemicals of various types and structures. They do not dissociate when dissolved in water and are characterised by the widest range of properties, depending on the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) ratio.

Properties of anionic surfactants:

• Good emulsifying properties,
• Ability to modify rheology,
• High solubility in water,
• Mostly biodegradable,
• Compatible with other surface-active compounds,
• High chemical stability.

Key areas of application for non-ionic surfactants

Cosmetic products

Non-ionic surfactants are widely used in the cosmetics industry for the production of ready-made formulations. They have good cleaning properties and are gentle on the skin. They are important ingredients in the production of skin care and cleansing cosmetics. They most often act as emulsifiers. They help to mix substances that are insoluble in water, such as oils and fats. This allows for a smooth, homogeneous consistency of the final product. Selected non-ionic surfactants act as conditioning agents and emollients in cleansing and skincare cosmetics.

Perfumes

Solubilisers, such as non-ionic surfactants, can be ingredients in perfumes. Solubilisation allows substances that are insoluble or difficult to dissolve in water, such as fragrances, plant extracts, vitamins and other oily substances, to be introduced into aqueous and water-alcohol solutions. The solubilising properties of non-ionic surfactants are used not only in perfumes, but also in some cosmetics.

Mining industry

This group of surface compounds can be included in the composition of flame-retardant HFA hydraulic fluids. They are also used in machining fluids and serve as lubricity improvers.

Plant protection products

The excellent emulsifying properties of non-ionic surfactants determine their use in pesticide formulations. They support their formation and maintain the stability of the finished product. The addition of non-ionic surfactants to plant protection products improves their application properties – adhesion and wettability of plant surfaces.

Tanning industry

Some non-ionic surfactants are additives in tanning processes. They provide a softening effect and also improve the processing values and strength of the raw material. They are ideal as washing agents. In addition, they have a high ability to penetrate various fibres.

Paint production

Non-ionic surfactants are used in the paint and varnish industry due to their very good emulsifying properties. They support the formation of stable emulsions and aid in the dispersion of dyes. Some non-ionic surfactants have the ability to extend the open time of paints. They also affect the behaviour of the paint during application, facilitating its application and improving its spreadability.

Chemical industry

Raw materials in the form of non-ionic surfactants can be used as intermediates for chemical synthesis. Due to the alkaline nature of selected compounds, they are used to neutralise acidic substances and as a pH regulator. This property is used, among other things, in the production of metalworking fluids, detergents, washing agents, cleaning agents and automotive chemicals.