POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL MONO-4-NONYLPHENYL ETHER

The general formula of nonoxynols is C9H19C6H4(OCH2CH2)nOH. Each nonoxynol is characterized by the number (n) of ethylene oxide repeated in the chain. They are present in detergents, liquid soaps, emulsifiers for creams, fabric softeners, photo graphie paper additives, hair dyes, lubricating oils, spermicides and anti-infective agents. They are irritants and sensitizers.

Clear, colourless or light yellow, viscous liquid.

spermatocide, contraceptive

Their general formula is C9H19C6H4(OCH2CH2)nOH. Each nonoxynol is characterized by the number (n) of ethylene oxide units repeated in the chain; for example, nonoxynol-9, nonoxynol-14. They are present in detergents, liquid soaps, emulsifiers for creams, fabric softeners, photographic paper additives, hair dyes, lubricating oils, spermicides, and antiinfective agents. They are irritants and sensitizers. Nonoxynol-6 was reported as a sensitizing agent in an industrial hand cleanser and in a crack-indicating fluid in the metal industry. Nonoxynol-9 is the most commonly used, as a preservative in topical antiseptics or in spermicides, acting as a iodophor in PVP-iodine solutions. Nonoxynol-10 was reported as a UVB-photosensitizer. Nonoxynol-12 caused contact dermatitis in a domestic cleaner who used a polish containing it.

Poison by intraperitoneal route. Experimental reproductive effects. Mutation data reported. An active ingredient in contraceptive jelhes, foams, and creams. Combustible when exposed to heat or flames. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. See also ALCOHOLS.