Heliwet FA 35/3
What is Heliwet FA 35/3?
Heliwet FA 35/3 is a non-ionic surfactant belonging to the group of alcohol ethoxylates. The product is based on C13–C15 fatty alcohol and has an HLB value of approximately 8.
Due to this relatively low HLB value, Heliwet FA 35/3 has a more lipophilic character compared to, for example, FA 35/12. This makes it particularly suitable for:
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Water-in-oil (W/O) systems
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Wetting of hydrophobic surfaces
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Degreasing of oily contamination
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Emulsification in technical applications
Heliwet FA 35/3 is mainly used in industrial cleaning and technical formulations where a more lipophilic surfactant is required.
Packaging
- IBC
- Drum
- Can
CAS
157627-86-6
INCI-name
Application
Technical
How is Heliwet FA 35/3 produced?
Heliwet FA 35/3 is produced via controlled ethoxylation of C13–C15 fatty alcohols with a limited number of moles of ethylene oxide.
During this process:
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The fatty alcohol reacts with ethylene oxide
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The number of EO units is precisely controlled
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A non-ionic surfactant with specific HLB characteristics is formed
The relatively low EO content results in an HLB of approximately 8, making the product suitable for systems where a balance between oil and water affinity is required.
Production is carried out in accordance with European regulations, including:
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REACH compliance
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Control of residual monomers
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Batch consistency
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Traceability of raw materials
How does Heliwet FA 35/3 work in a formulation?
Heliwet FA 35/3 functions as an emulsifier, wetting agent, and supporting cleaning surfactant.
1. Emulsification
With an HLB of 8, Heliwet FA 35/3 is positioned in the mid-range of the HLB spectrum. This allows it to function as:
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A water-in-oil (W/O) emulsifier
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A co-emulsifier in more complex systems
Example:
In an industrial degreaser, FA 35/3 helps stabilize oily contamination so it can be effectively removed.
2. Wetting of surfaces
The product reduces surface tension and improves the spreading of liquids over hydrophobic surfaces.
Example:
In metal cleaning, Heliwet FA 35/3 ensures that the cleaning solution makes better contact with oily residues.
3. Support in degreasing
Due to its lipophilic nature, the product has a strong affinity for fats and oils. This allows it to effectively contribute to the removal of heavy contamination.
This makes it suitable for applications where strongly hydrophilic surfactants are less effective.
In which industries is Heliwet FA 35/3 used?
Heliwet FA 35/3 is selected when a formulation requires a more lipophilic surfactant compared to, for example, FA 35/12.
Industrial cleaning
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Heavy-duty degreasers
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Workshop cleaners
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Metal cleaning
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Process cleaning
Detergents
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Supporting surfactant in high-performance cleaning formulations
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Combinations with anionic or non-ionic surfactants
Technical applications
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Emulsification in industrial systems
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Wetting agents in coatings
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Water-in-oil (W/O) applications
Besides Heliwet 35/3, we have other products in our range. Check it out on our insights page!
Frequently asked questions about Heliwet FA 35/3
1. What are the benefits of Heliwet FA 35/3?
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HLB value of approximately 8 (balanced character)
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Good wetting of hydrophobic surfaces
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Suitable for W/O systems
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Compatible with other surfactants
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Consistent quality
The product offers flexibility in technical cleaning formulations.
2. What is the difference between FA 35/3 and FA 35/12?
The main difference lies in the number of EO units and the HLB value:
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FA 35/3 → lower EO → HLB ~8 → more lipophilic
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FA 35/12 → higher EO → HLB ~14 → more hydrophilic
FA 35/3 is therefore more suitable for systems where oil affinity is more important than water solubility.
3. Is Heliwet FA 35/3 suitable for cosmetic applications?
The product is primarily positioned for technical and industrial applications. Additional documentation and evaluation are required for cosmetic use.
4. Is Heliwet FA 35/3 sensitive to water hardness?
As a non-ionic surfactant, it is less sensitive to water hardness than many anionic alternatives, making it suitable for industrial environments with varying water quality.
Chempri: your partner in Heliwet FA 35/3
Chempri supplies Heliwet FA 35/3 from Europe with a focus on:
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Reliable deliveries
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Consistent quality
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Technical support
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Product documentation (specifications, SDS and COA)
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Flexible batch sizes
At Chempri, we specialize in the production and supply of high-quality oleochemicals and their derivatives, including Heliwet FA 35/3. Our products are manufactured in our modern production facility and can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of our customers.
Do you have any questions or would you like to place an order directly?
Contact our sales team for more information.
