Ethoxylated Castor Oil (Polyoxyl Castor Oil)
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries manufactures a comprehensive range of Ethoxylated Castor Oils, versatile non-ionic surfactants produced by the reaction of Castor Oil with Ethylene Oxide (EO).
By controlling the molar ratio of Ethylene Oxide, we engineer surfactants with varying Hydrophile-Lipophile Balance (HLB) values. Our flagship grade, PEG-35 Castor Oil, is the industry-standard solubilizer used to deliver hydrophobic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and emulsify complex industrial formulations.
1. The Chemistry (Ethoxylation)
The ethoxylation process inserts hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chains into the hydrophobic castor oil molecule.
- Reaction: 1 Mole of Castor Oil is reacted with “n” Moles of Ethylene Oxide (typically 30, 35, or 40 moles) under pressure and heat.
- Mechanism: The EO adds primarily to the hydroxyl group of the ricinoleic acid and the ester linkages.
- Result: The resulting molecule is Amphiphilic—it has both oil-loving (lipophilic) and water-loving (hydrophilic) parts.1 This allows it to encapsulate oils and hold them in clear, stable water solutions (micellar solubilization).
2. Key Applications
Pharmaceutical Excipients
Nova Industries manufactures Polyoxyl 35 Castor Oil (USP/NF Grade equivalent), which is essential for administering poorly soluble drugs.
- Drug Delivery: Acts as a vehicle for hydrophobic drugs such as Paclitaxel, Miconazole, and Cyclosporine.2 It creates stable micelles that allow these drugs to be injected or ingested in aqueous forms.
- Bioavailability: Improves the absorption of vitamins and lipophilic nutrients.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Solubilizer: The standard agent for solubilizing fragrance oils, essential oils, and vitamins into water-based systems (toners, body mists, gels) without clouding.3
- Emulsifier: Used in creams and lotions to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions.4
Agrochemicals
- Emulsifiable Concentrates (EC): A primary emulsifier for pesticide and herbicide formulations. It ensures the active ingredient disperses instantly when the farmer mixes the concentrate with water.
Textiles & Industrial
- Wool Scouring: An excellent detergent for removing grease and lanolin from raw wool during processing.5
- Lubricants: Used in water-soluble metalworking fluids and corrosion inhibitors.
3. Technical Specifications (TDS)
Nova Industries offers standard grades such as PEG-30, PEG-35, and PEG-40. Below are the specifications for the most common PEG-35 Grade (Standard Solubilizer).
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
| Product Name | Ethoxylated Castor Oil (PEG-35) | — |
| Chemical Name | Polyoxyl 35 Castor Oil | — |
| CAS Number | 61791-12-6 | — |
| Appearance | Clear to Light Yellow Viscous Liquid | Visual |
| Acid Value | 2.0 Max | ISO 660 |
| Hydroxyl Value | 65 – 80 (varies by EO moles) | ISO 4326 |
| Saponification Value | 60 – 75 | ISO 3657 |
| pH (5% Aqueous Sol.) | 5.0 – 7.0 | ASTM D1172 |
| Water Content | 0.5% Max | Karl Fischer |
| Cloud Point (1% in 10% NaCl) | 68°C – 75°C | ASTM D2024 |
| Specific Gravity @ 25°C | 1.05 – 1.06 | — |
| HLB Value | 12 – 14 (approx.) | Calculation |
| Solubility | Soluble in Water, Ethanol, Ethyl Acetate | — |
Packaging & Storage
- Packaging: 200 Kg HDPE Drums / 1 Ton IBC Totes.
- Storage: Hygroscopic material. Keep containers tightly closed. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture. Shelf life is 2 years.
For Solubilization Technical Support:
Nova Industries
Website: https://novaind.in/