Brij

Emulsification

Alcohol ethoxylates are well suited to align efficiently at liquid interfaces, to support stabilization of dispersed phases in a low viscosity formulation, commonly oil in water. Brij surfactants are a safe and sustainable alternative to alkylphenol ethoxylates (also known as APEOs or NPEs).

All Brij surfactants are:

• Stable over a wide pH range
• Electrolyte tolerant
• Hydrolytically stable

It is commonly recommended to use a pair of Brij of surfactants – one with a high hydrophilic/lipophilic balance (HLB), and one with a low HLB - in combination, for optimal efficiency and stability.

Wetting

Brij natural fatty alcohol ethoxylates may also be used to lower the surface tension of water and other solvents to improve wetting of particles and substrates. Hydrophilic adsorption to particle surfaces can also enhance dispersion stability. These effects are often associated with a reduction in energy required in stabilising dispersions such pigment concentrates. Brij surfactants though can also improve the sustainability profile of formulated systems in use, such as in photovoltaic (PV) pastes, where the inclusion of a Brij surfactant can improve rheology control for cleaner, more uniform lines, ultimately allowing solar energy to captured more efficiently.