BASF Pluronic PE 4200 Surfactant

Features Of BASF Pluronic PE 4200 Surfactant

1. Non-ionic triblock copolymer based on poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) architecture.

2. High molecular weight (approx. 4,200 g/mol) providing enhanced steric stabilization in demanding colloidal systems.

3. Excellent water solubility and low foaming characteristics across a broad pH range (pH 3–11).

4. Thermoresponsive behavior with well-defined cloud point, enabling temperature-triggered phase separation for process control.

5. Low toxicity profile and compliance with major regulatory frameworks including FDA 21 CFR §172.856 and EU REACH.

Typical Applications Of BASF Pluronic PE 4200 Surfactant

1. Stabilizer in pharmaceutical emulsions and nanostructured drug delivery systems (e.g., micelles, liposomes).

2. Dispersing agent for high-solids pigment formulations in industrial coatings and inkjet inks.

3. Emulsifier and viscosity modifier in personal care emulsions, especially in rinse-off and leave-on products.

4. Template and structure-directing agent in the synthesis of mesoporous silica and metal oxide nanomaterials.

Specifications Of BASF Pluronic PE 4200 Surfactant

BASF Pluronic PE 4200 Surfactant – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the primary chemical structure and classification of Pluronic PE 4200?

A: Pluronic PE 4200 is a nonionic triblock copolymer composed of a central hydrophobic polypropylene oxide (PPO) segment flanked by two hydrophilic polyethylene oxide (PEO) blocks. It belongs to the Pluronic® family of polyether surfactants and exhibits amphiphilic behavior, enabling solubilization, emulsification, and stabilization in aqueous systems.

Q2: In which types of industrial formulations is Pluronic PE 4200 commonly used?

A: Pluronic PE 4200 is frequently employed in agrochemical formulations (e.g., suspension concentrates and emulsifiable concentrates), pharmaceutical pre-formulations (as a solubilizer or stabilizer for poorly water-soluble actives), and specialty cleaning systems where low-foaming, high-efficiency wetting and dispersion are required. Its thermal stability and compatibility with electrolytes support use in demanding processing conditions.

Q3: How does Pluronic PE 4200 compare to lower- or higher-molecular-weight Pluronics in terms of performance?

A: With a nominal molecular weight around 4200 g/mol, PE 4200 offers a balanced PEO/PPO ratio that provides stronger surface activity and better micelle stability than lower-MW variants (e.g., PE 1050), while retaining greater water solubility and lower viscosity than higher-MW analogs (e.g., PE 8100). This makes it particularly effective for moderate-temperature applications requiring both solubilization capacity and formulation clarity.

Q4: Is Pluronic PE 4200 suitable for use in food-contact or pharmaceutical applications?

A: Pluronic PE 4200 is manufactured under controlled conditions and complies with relevant pharmacopoeial standards for excipients when supplied as a pharmaceutical-grade material. For food-contact applications, suitability depends on final regulatory assessment by the formulator; BASF provides documentation supporting its use in indirect food-contact scenarios, such as cleaning-in-place (CIP) formulations, subject to appropriate risk evaluation and dosage control.

Q5: What are key handling and storage recommendations for Pluronic PE 4200?

A: Store in original sealed containers at temperatures between 10–30 °C, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. The product is hygroscopic and may absorb ambient moisture over time; therefore, containers should be resealed promptly after use. Avoid prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures (>45 °C) to prevent potential viscosity changes or oxidative degradation.