Understanding OP-10 No. 3: A Comprehensive Overview
OP-10 No. 3, also known as alkylphenol polyoxyethylene ether OP-10, is a versatile industrial surfactant that has gained significant attention in various industries. This article delves into the details of OP-10 No. 3, exploring its properties, applications, and the factors that make it a preferred choice among manufacturers.
Properties of OP-10 No. 3
OP-10 No. 3 is a non-ionic surfactant that belongs to the alkylphenol polyoxyethylene ether family. It is characterized by its unique structure, which consists of a hydrophobic alkyl chain and a hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chain. This structure allows OP-10 No. 3 to effectively reduce the surface tension of liquids, making it an excellent emulsifier and dispersant.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CnH2n+2O(C2H4O)nH |
| Molecular Weight | 600-700 g/mol |
| HLB Value | 13.3-14.0 |
| Boiling Point | N/A |
| Melting Point | N/A |
Applications of OP-10 No. 3
OP-10 No. 3 finds extensive applications in various industries due to its unique properties. Here are some of the key applications:
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Textile Industry: OP-10 No. 3 is used as a fiber penetrant, wetting agent, degreaser, and dyeing assistant. It improves the dyeability and hand feel of fibers.
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Leather Industry: OP-10 No. 3 is used as a leather degreaser, wetting agent, and softener. It enhances the quality and appearance of leather products.
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Paper Industry: OP-10 No. 3 is used as a paper antistatic agent, wetting agent, and lubricant. It improves the luster and strength of paper.
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Pesticide Industry: OP-10 No. 3 is used as an emulsifier, solvent, and synergist for pesticides. It improves the stability and insecticidal effect of pesticides.
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Oilfield Industry: OP-10 No. 3 is used as a drilling fluid additive, corrosion inhibitor, and viscosity reducer. It enhances the efficiency and safety of oil well production.
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Construction Industry: OP-10 No. 3 is used as a cement dispersant, water-reducing agent, and antifreeze agent. It improves the fluidity and strength of cement.
Manufacturing Process
OP-10 No. 3 is produced through a reaction between alkylphenol and ethylene oxide. The process involves several steps, including alkylphenol preparation, ethylene oxide addition, and product purification. The following table outlines the key steps involved in the manufacturing process:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Alkylphenol Preparation | Alkylphenol is synthesized by reacting phenol with alkyl halide in the presence of a catalyst. |
| Ethylene Oxide Addition | Ethylene oxide is added to the alkylphenol in the presence of a catalyst to form alkylphenol polyoxyethylene ether. |
| Product Purification | The product is purified through distillation and other separation techniques to remove impurities. |
Environmental and Health Considerations
While OP-10 No
