Guangzhou Eric Wei Chemical Co., Ltd.
Guangzhou Eric Wei Chemical Co., Ltd.

BASF Tetronic 304 Surfactant

BASF Tetronic 304 is a nonionic triblock copolymer surfactant (PEO-PPO-PEO) offering excellent emulsification, solubilization and temperature-responsive behavior. Widely used in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals and personal care for stable formulations, low foaming and high biocompatibility. It enhances active ingredient delivery while maintaining low toxicity and regulatory compliance across global markets.
  • basf tetronic 304 surfactant_0b5536cd
  • basf tetronic 304 surfactant_0b5536cd

Features Of BASF Tetronic 304 Surfactant

  1. Non-ionic triblock copolymer based on polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polypropylene oxide (PPO) with unique reverse thermogelling behavior.

  2. Excellent solubilizing capacity for hydrophobic actives, fragrances, and oils in aqueous systems.

  3. Low cytotoxicity and favorable skin compatibility, supporting mild formulation profiles.

  4. Effective emulsifier and stabilizer across a broad pH range (pH 3–12) without hydrolysis sensitivity.

  5. Biodegradable backbone structure aligned with evolving regulatory and sustainability requirements.

Typical Applications Of BASF Tetronic 304 Surfactant

  1. Personal care: Clear gels, micellar cleansers, and leave-on moisturizers requiring temperature-responsive rheology.

  2. Pharmaceuticals: Solubilization and sustained-release vehicles for poorly water-soluble APIs in topical and ophthalmic formulations.

  3. Agrochemicals: Stabilization of oil-in-water emulsions for EC and SE formulations with low volatility and high dilution stability.

  4. Home care: Fragrance delivery systems and co-surfactant in low-foaming, high-efficiency liquid detergents.

  5. Industrial cleaning: Builder component in alkaline heavy-duty cleaners for metal and surface degreasing.

Specifications Of BASF Tetronic 304 Surfactant

Chemical TypeNon-ionic PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymer
Product FormWhite to off-white flake or granular solid
Appearance (10% aqueous solution)Clear, colorless to pale yellow solution
pH (1% aqueous solution, 25 °C)5.5–7.5
SolubilityFreely soluble in water, ethanol, and propylene glycol; partially soluble in glycerin
Cloud Point (1% aqueous solution)~25–28 °C
HLB Value~19.5
Storage StabilityStable for ≥24 months at <25 °C in original sealed packaging


BASF Tetronic 304 Surfactant – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the primary chemical nature of Tetronic 304?

A: Tetronic 304 is a nonionic, amphiphilic block copolymer based on a polypropylene oxide–polyethylene oxide–polypropylene oxide (PPO–PEO–PPO) triblock architecture, with a central hydrophobic PPO segment flanked by hydrophilic PEO chains.


Q2: In which types of formulations is Tetronic 304 most commonly used?

A: It is widely employed in aqueous-based personal care emulsions, pharmaceutical suspensions and solubilization systems, agrochemical adjuvants, and industrial cleaning formulations—particularly where low-foaming, temperature-responsive behavior or micellar solubilization is beneficial.


Q3: How does Tetronic 304 behave with respect to temperature and cloud point?

A: As a thermoresponsive surfactant, Tetronic 304 exhibits a distinct cloud point in aqueous solution—typically observed between 20 °C and 35 °C depending on concentration and ionic strength—enabling applications such as temperature-triggered phase separation or viscosity modulation.


Q4: Is Tetronic 304 compatible with common ionic surfactants and electrolytes?

A: Yes, it demonstrates good compatibility with anionic and cationic surfactants in many systems and tolerates moderate levels of electrolytes, though high salt concentrations may reduce its cloud point and affect micelle stability.


Q5: What are typical dosage guidelines for Tetronic 304 in functional formulations?

A: Dosage depends on formulation requirements but generally ranges from 0.1% to 2% by weight; it is typically used at low concentrations to achieve emulsification, solubilization, or rheology modification without excessive foaming or viscosity build-up.



Get in Touch with ERICW
Let competitive chemical materials go global.

Your Name *

Your Email *

Your Phone

Country

Your Message *