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

BASF Tetronic 90R4 Surfactant

BASF Tetronic 90R4 is a nonionic triblock copolymer surfactant from the Tetronic® series, featuring PEO-PPO-PEO architecture. It offers excellent emulsification, solubilization, and temperature-responsive behavior, widely used in agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and personal care formulations for enhanced stability and delivery.
  • basf tetronic 90r4 surfactant_6813bfd3
  • basf tetronic 90r4 surfactant_6813bfd3

Features Of BASF Tetronic 90R4 Surfactant

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

  2. Excellent solubilizing and stabilizing performance for hydrophobic actives in aqueous systems.

  3. Low foaming profile suitable for high-shear and industrial cleaning applications.

  4. Good thermal and pH stability across broad formulation conditions (pH 4–10).

  5. Biodegradable backbone and low aquatic toxicity, supporting sustainable formulation goals.

Typical Applications Of BASF Tetronic 90R4 Surfactant

  1. Agrochemical formulations — emulsifiable concentrates (EC) and suspension concentrates (SC).

  2. Industrial and institutional (I&I) cleaners — low-foam alkaline and neutral detergents.

  3. Personal care — solubilizer for fragrances and UV filters in clear gels and aqueous sprays.

  4. Pharmaceutical suspensions and oral liquid dosage forms requiring colloidal stabilization.

  5. Specialty coatings — dispersant and wetting agent for pigment-rich waterborne systems.

Specifications Of BASF Tetronic 90R4 Surfactant

Chemical TypeTriblock copolymer (PEO-PPO-PEO, reverse architecture)
Product FormPale yellow to amber viscous liquid
AppearanceClear to slightly hazy, homogeneous liquid at 25 °C
Primary ApplicationsSolubilization, emulsification, stabilization, wetting
Key FeaturesLow foaming, high solubilization capacity, non-ionic, thermoresponsive
BenefitsEnables clear aqueous formulations, improves active loading, enhances shelf-life stability
Recommended StorageBelow 30 °C, protected from direct sunlight and moisture
Regulatory StatusREACH registered; compliant with US FDA 21 CFR §173.370 (indirect food additives)


BASF Tetronic 90R4 Surfactant – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the primary function of Tetronic 90R4 in formulations?

A: Tetronic 90R4 is a nonionic, amphiphilic block copolymer surfactant designed to provide effective solubilization, stabilization, and viscosity modulation—particularly in aqueous systems containing hydrophobic actives or oils. Its unique Pluronic®-derived architecture enables strong interfacial activity and temperature-responsive behavior.


Q2: Is Tetronic 90R4 suitable for use in personal care emulsions?

A: Yes, it is commonly used in mild, low-irritancy personal care applications such as cleansing gels, micellar waters, and oil-in-water emulsions. Its nonionic nature and high cloud point contribute to formulation stability across a broad pH range and compatibility with common preservatives and electrolytes.


Q3: How does Tetronic 90R4 differ from standard Pluronic® PEO-PPO-PEO surfactants?

A: Unlike linear Pluronics®, Tetronic® surfactants feature a tetrafunctional, star-shaped architecture with four PEO-PPO arms radiating from an ethylenediamine core. This structure enhances micellar stability, improves solubilization capacity for larger molecules, and often results in higher viscosity development at equivalent concentrations.


Q4: Can Tetronic 90R4 be used in cold-process formulations?

A: Yes—it dissolves readily in water at room temperature and does not require heating for incorporation, making it well-suited for energy-efficient, cold-process manufacturing. Its solubility profile supports rapid dispersion and uniform distribution without prolonged mixing.



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

Your Name *

Your Email *

Your Phone

Country

Your Message *