Non-ionic, amphiphilic block copolymer based on polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polypropylene oxide (PPO) segments.
Excellent solubilizing and stabilizing performance 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 3–11).
Biodegradable backbone and low aquatic toxicity profile supporting sustainable formulation design.
Stabilizer for agrochemical suspension concentrates (SC) and emulsifiable concentrates (EC).
Emulsifier and solubilizer in pharmaceutical oral and topical liquid formulations.
Performance additive in industrial metalworking fluids for oil-in-water emulsion stability.
Dispersant for pigment and nanomaterial suspensions in coatings and inks.
| 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 | Agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, industrial fluids, coatings |
| Key Features | Solubilization, stabilization, low foam, electrolyte tolerance |
| Recommended Storage | Below 30 °C, protect from freezing and direct sunlight |
| INCI Name | Polyoxyl (90) Polyoxypropylene (4) Ether |
| Regulatory Status | REACH registered; compliant with US EPA Safer Choice criteria (where applicable) |
Q1: What is the primary functional role of Tetronic 904 in formulations?
A: Tetronic 904 is a pluronic-type triblock copolymer surfactant that functions primarily as a nonionic stabilizer and solubilizer. It enhances formulation homogeneity, improves interfacial activity, and supports micelle formation—particularly valuable in aqueous systems requiring temperature-responsive behavior or colloidal stability.
Q2: Is Tetronic 904 suitable for use in personal care applications?
A: Yes, Tetronic 904 is widely used in rinse-off and leave-on personal care products—including cleansers, conditioners, and emulsion-based serums—due to its mildness, low irritation potential, and ability to solubilize actives and fragrances without compromising skin feel.
Q3: How does Tetronic 904 behave under varying temperature conditions?
A: As a thermosensitive Pluronic®-based polymer, Tetronic 904 exhibits reversible micellization with increasing temperature—transitioning from molecularly dissolved to micellar aggregates above its critical micelle temperature (CMT). This enables unique rheology control and stimuli-responsive release profiles in temperature-triggered delivery systems.
Q4: Can Tetronic 904 be used in combination with ionic surfactants?
A: Yes, Tetronic 904 demonstrates good compatibility with anionic, cationic, and amphoteric surfactants in most aqueous systems. Its nonionic nature helps mitigate electrostatic repulsion and can improve overall foam stability and viscosity synergy—though compatibility should always be verified experimentally within the target formulation matrix.
Q5: What is the typical dosage range for Tetronic 904 in industrial applications?
A: Dosage depends on the specific application and desired performance outcome, but it is typically used at low concentrations—generally ranging from 0.1% to 2% by weight—in formulations such as agrochemical concentrates, pharmaceutical dispersions, and specialty coatings.
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