Nonionic, amphiphilic block copolymer based on polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polypropylene oxide (PPO) segments.
Excellent solubilizing and stabilizing capability for hydrophobic actives in aqueous systems.
Low foaming profile suitable for high-shear and industrial cleaning formulations.
Good compatibility with electrolytes and a broad pH range (pH 3–12).
Biodegradable backbone with low aquatic toxicity, supporting sustainable formulation design.
Agrochemical formulations — enhancing solubilization and foliar adhesion of active ingredients.
Industrial and institutional (I&I) cleaners — providing grease removal and soil suspension without excessive foam.
Pharmaceutical suspensions and microemulsions — acting as a stabilizer and wetting agent for poorly water-soluble drugs.
Personal care emulsions — enabling stable oil-in-water systems with mild sensory properties.
Coatings and inks — improving pigment dispersion and substrate wetting in water-based systems.
| Chemical Type | Tri-block copolymer (PEO-PPO-PEO) |
| Product Form | Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid |
| Appearance | Clear to slightly hazy, homogeneous liquid at 25°C |
| Primary Applications | Solubilizer, stabilizer, emulsifier, wetting agent |
| Key Features | Low foaming, high solubilization capacity, electrolyte-tolerant |
| Benefits | Improved formulation stability, reduced rinse requirements, enhanced active delivery |
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Solubility | Freely soluble in water and common polar organic solvents |
Q1: What is the primary chemical nature of Tetronic 901?
A: Tetronic 901 is a polyether-based triblock copolymer surfactant, composed of a central hydrophobic polypropylene oxide (PPO) segment flanked by two hydrophilic polyethylene oxide (PEO) blocks. Its structure provides amphiphilic character and temperature-dependent solubility behavior.
Q2: In which types of formulations is Tetronic 901 most commonly used?
A: It is widely employed in aqueous agrochemical formulations (e.g., SC, SE, and EW), personal care emulsions, pharmaceutical dispersion systems, and industrial cleaning concentrates—particularly where stabilization of oil-in-water dispersions or solubilization of active ingredients is required.
Q3: How does Tetronic 901 perform under varying pH and ionic strength conditions?
A: As a nonionic surfactant, Tetronic 901 maintains good stability across a broad pH range (approximately pH 3–11) and exhibits moderate tolerance to electrolytes—though high salt concentrations may reduce its cloud point and affect micellization efficiency.
Q4: Is Tetronic 901 suitable for use in cold-process formulations?
A: Yes, its low viscosity and excellent water solubility at ambient temperatures enable straightforward incorporation into cold-process systems without heating or pre-dissolution steps—supporting energy-efficient manufacturing.
Q5: What are typical dosage guidelines for Tetronic 901 in end-use applications?
A: Dosage depends on formulation requirements, but it is typically used at low concentrations—generally ranging from 0.1% to 2% by weight—to achieve effective stabilization, wetting, or solubilization without compromising system rheology or clarity.
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