EO/PO block polyether selection · Procurement guide
L61, L62, L63 or L64: the short answer
Start with the required function and operating conditions, then compare the exact grade specifications. Do not choose an L-series block polyether from its code or HLB alone. Kemaix lists L61, L62, L63 and L64 within its existing EO/PO block-polyether collection. Molecular weight, viscosity, cloud point, water compatibility and formulation testing all matter.
Compare the Kemaix EO/PO block-polyether collection and current published grade table.
What should you compare across L61–L64?
| Property | Question for the supplier | Decision it supports |
|---|---|---|
| Grade identity | What is the exact product designation and composition covered by the TDS and SDS? | Establish that the quoted material matches the requested grade. |
| Molecular weight and HLB | Are values typical references or specification limits, and how are they determined? | Screen the balance between water compatibility and the intended formulation function. |
| Viscosity | What temperature and measurement method apply? | Compare handling, pumping and dosing requirements under relevant conditions. |
| Cloud point | What concentration, medium, method and endpoint were used? | Avoid comparing values measured under different procedures. |
| Batch documentation | Which limits are agreed for supply, and what does the batch COA report? | Separate screening data from acceptance criteria. |
Keep cloud-point comparisons method-aware
A cloud-point number without its test conditions is incomplete. For example, BASF’s industrial product guides distinguish cloud-point methods and specify the test medium. That is a useful reminder to request the procedure when reviewing any supplier’s EO/PO grade data.
For Kemaix grades: request the current TDS before using a published table value to set a process temperature or purchasing limit. Check concentration, medium and method together. A similarity between trade codes does not establish equivalence between suppliers.
A practical screening workflow
- Write the requirement. State whether the priority is foam control, low-foam cleaning, wetting, dispersion or another function. Record temperature, pH, electrolytes and relevant formulation components.
- Shortlist from current documents. Review L61, L62, L63 and L64 in the same product collection. Confirm the exact specification and availability before requesting samples.
- Compare under one test procedure. Keep concentration, temperature, mixing conditions and the base formulation consistent. Record initial behavior and the result after the relevant operating period.
- Check downstream effects. Review phase separation, residue, filtration or material compatibility where relevant. For foam-control projects, evaluate the dose-response and persistence in the actual process.
- Agree purchasing criteria. Confirm grade, specification limits, packaging, quantity, destination, documents and sample or delivery terms in writing.
Common selection mistakes
- Assuming L61–L64 are separate product families rather than grades within one collection.
- Treating the highest HLB or highest cloud point as universally preferable.
- Comparing viscosity or cloud-point values without their measurement conditions.
- Claiming one supplier’s material is an exact substitute based only on a similar trade name.
- Using a typical series value as a guaranteed batch-release limit.
Questions buyers often ask
Are L61, L62, L63 and L64 separate product pages?
At Kemaix they are grades within the EO/PO block-polyether collection. The collection page provides their published specification rows and links for grade review.
Can one grade replace another directly?
Do not assume a direct replacement. Compare identity, current specifications and behavior in the complete formulation before qualification.
Which documents should I request?
Request the current grade-specific TDS and SDS and available batch COA information. Confirm the applicable methods, specification limits and intended-use requirements.
Request an L-series grade review
Send the requested grade or target properties, application, process conditions, quantity and destination. List the documents and sample requirements you need; availability and supply terms are confirmed individually.
Request L-series documents and quotationSources and scope
- Kemaix EO/PO block-polyether collection: supplier-published grade information; current TDS and agreed specifications govern grade approval.
- BASF 2025 Industrial & Institutional Product Guide: reference for reporting cloud-point methods and test media, not evidence of equivalence to Kemaix grades.
Compiled 12 October 2026 from public supplier information. This guide provides a screening and procurement workflow; it does not report new laboratory measurements. Pluronic® is a BASF trademark; no affiliation or grade equivalence is implied.
