водещ параграф:
Even the most advanced surfactants can lose their performance if not stored properly. Decomposition during storage is one of the most common causes of quality decline in chemical formulations.
откъс от параграф:
To prevent decomposition of surfactants in storage, maintain a cool (20–40°C), dry, and airtight environment, avoid exposure to moisture, strong acids, or oxidizers, and use high-quality packaging materials such as HDPE drums or stainless-steel tanks. Regular testing of acid value, color, and pH helps ensure long-term stability.

Преходен параграф:
Whether you’re handling textile wetting agents, coating dispersants, or phosphate ester surfactants, proper storage determines product longevity and safety. This guide from Donghong Chemical explains the key factors that cause surfactant decomposition — and how to effectively prevent them in industrial and warehouse conditions.
Why Surfactants Decompose During Storage
водещ параграф:
Surfactants are designed for chemical stability, yet several environmental and chemical factors can accelerate their degradation.
откъс от параграф:
Decomposition typically results from hydrolysis, oxidation, microbial growth, or thermal stress. Each mechanism alters molecular structure, leading to color change, odor formation, and reduced surface activity.
Common Causes of Surfactant Degradation:
| Cause | Description | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrolysis | Reaction with water due to moisture ingress | Acid or alcohol formation, drop in pH |
| Oxidation | Reaction with oxygen or air exposure | Discoloration, rancid odor |
| High Temperature | Speeds up hydrolysis and oxidation | Viscosity change, loss of functionality |
| UV Exposure | Breaks down molecular bonds | Color shift or precipitate formation |
| Microbial Growth | Occurs in aqueous surfactants | Spoilage and foul odor |
Пример:
Phosphate ester surfactants like AEO-3 or NP-10 can hydrolyze if moisture enters the storage container, leading to higher acid value and reduced emulsification efficiency.

Optimal Storage Conditions for Surfactants
водещ параграф:
The simplest way to protect surfactants is by controlling their environment — temperature, humidity, and exposure.
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- Avoid storing near humid or wet areas — moisture triggers decomposition.
3. Light Protection
- Store in shaded or covered warehouses.
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- Direct sunlight can degrade color and reduce active ingredient concentration.
4. Compatibility and Segregation
| Incompatible Substance | Risk |
|---|---|
| Strong oxidizers (e.g., peroxides) | Fire and decomposition hazard |
| Strong bases or acids | Chemical neutralization or hydrolysis |
| Reactive metals (iron, copper, zinc) | Discoloration or catalytic breakdown |
| Water or steam | Promotes hydrolysis and pH drift |
5. Recommended Packaging
- HDPE drums or IBC tanks (1000 L) for liquid surfactants.
- Epoxy-lined steel containers for industrial-scale storage.
- Avoid mild steel or uncoated metal tanks for acidic esters.

Monitoring Product Stability
водещ параграф:
Even with ideal storage, periodic testing ensures product integrity and prevents unnoticed degradation.
откъс от параграф:
Regular quality monitoring helps maintain consistency and provides early detection of chemical changes.
Key Quality Parameters to Monitor:
| Параметър | Ideal Range | Indicator of Degradation |
|---|---|---|
| Външен вид | Clear, color ≤30 APHA | Yellowing or haze formation |
| pH (разтвор 5%) | 5–8 | Drop indicates hydrolysis |
| Стойност на киселинност (mgKOH/g) | 0.1–0.3 (neutral type) | Increase indicates decomposition |
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водещ параграф:
Phosphate esters are among the most stable surfactants — but small handling mistakes can still shorten their shelf life.
откъс от параграф:
Implementing a few preventative measures can extend shelf life up to 24 months or longer under proper conditions.
1. Use Inert Gas Blanketing
- Fill headspace in drums or tanks with nitrogen.
- Prevents oxidation and color degradation.
- Recommended for P204, TBP, TEP, and AEO-3 phosphate esters.
2. Keep Drums Sealed and Dry
- Always close container lids tightly after sampling.
- Use desiccant packs for long-term sealed storage.
3. Maintain Storage Rotation
- Adopt the FIFO (First In, First Out) principle.
- Regularly record batch numbers and storage durations.
4. Avoid Frequent Heating
- Some facilities heat containers for fluidity — this accelerates breakdown.
- Instead, keep products in temperature-controlled warehouses.
5. Add Stabilizers if Necessary
- For sensitive formulations, small doses of antioxidants or chelating agents can extend life.
- Always consult the supplier before modifying chemical composition.
Резултат:
Proper storage can maintain acid value, color, and activity nearly identical to production specifications for over two years.
Dive Deeper: Environmental and Safety Practices
водещ параграф:
Safe storage goes hand in hand with environmental responsibility and workplace protection.
откъс от параграф:
Preventing decomposition also prevents toxic vapor release and waste generation, contributing to cleaner and safer operations.
Donghong Chemical’s Environmental Safety Standards:
- Closed-loop solvent recovery system (>95% efficiency).
- Zero wastewater discharge from production.
- Съответствие с ISO14001, REACH, and RoHS.
- Use of biodegradable, non-halogenated phosphate esters.
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Donghong Chemical (Гуандун, Китай) cURL Too many subrequests. фосфатни естери и добавки за повърхностни активатори cURL Too many subrequests.
Асортимент от продукти:
- AEO-3 Фосфатен естер: cURL Too many subrequests.
- NP-10 Фосфатен естер: cURL Too many subrequests.
- P204 (2-Етилхексил фосфат): cURL Too many subrequests.
- TEP / TOP / TBP: cURL Too many subrequests.
Предимства:
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📧 Имейл: dohollchemical@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +86 139 0301 4781
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cURL Too many subrequests. cURL Too many subrequests., moisture-free containers, и airtight packaging, you can prevent decomposition and preserve surfactant performance for years.
With Donghong Chemical’s high-purity phosphate esters, rigorous QC standards, and expert storage guidance, businesses can ensure both chemical reliability and environmental safety throughout their supply chain.
For product stability consultation or storage guidelines:
📧 Имейл: dohollchemical@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +86 139 0301 4781
Donghong Chemical — Global supplier of high-purity phosphate esters and surfactants, ensuring chemical stability from production to long-term storage.
