Does Poloxamer 188 represent one discrete molecule or a 99% single-compound grade?

No. Poloxamer 188 is an EO/PO/EO block-copolymer distribution, not one discrete molecule. Its identity as a commercial grade relies on a defined average-mass range, oxyethylene content, physical form and the stated analytical methods. A percentage alone cannot describe the relevant polymer distribution or control profile.

Can Poloxamer 188 be substituted with Poloxamer 407 or another EO/PO copolymer sharing CAS 9003-11-6?

No. The CAS number is shared across multiple EO/PO block-copolymer grades. Poloxamer 188 and Poloxamer 407 have different block compositions and average-mass ranges, so they are not interchangeable on CAS identity. Compare the required grade definition and assess the proposed material in the intended system before replacement.

What should be confirmed when a controlled or compendial Poloxamer 188 grade is required?

Confirm the exact named standard, intended use and destination requirements before evaluating an offer. The actual grade’s specification, stated testing basis, batch data and applicable documentary status must be reviewed. A generic Poloxamer 188 description or a shared CAS number does not establish suitability for a controlled application.

Poloxamer 188 (F68) CAS 9003-11-6

Poloxamer 188 (F68, CAS 9003-11-6, EC/List No. 618-355-0) is a PEO-PPO-PEO triblock-copolymer distribution rather than one discrete molecule. The Poloxamer 188 designation is defined by average composition and molecular-mass controls; F68 is common commercial shorthand, while branded products require separate origin confirmation. It is evaluated as a nonionic surfactant and process aid in technical, formulation and bioprocess systems. Confirm the applicable specification or monograph, average molecular mass, oxyethylene content, additives, physical form, packaging and the documentation required for the intended use before qualification.

CAS: 9003-11-6
Synonyms: Poloxamer 188; Polyether F68; EO/PO triblock copolymer; Poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)-block-poly(ethylene oxide); Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane
Einecs: 618-355-0
Molecular Formula: HO(C2H4O)a(C3H6O)b(C2H4O)aH (average triblock polymer; no single molecular formula)
Grade: Confirm applicable specification, average molecular mass, oxyethylene content, additives, water and physical form
Package: Confirm current packaging, net weight and protection requirements for the selected specification

Request a quote

Share:

Product Description

1 Product overview

2 Technical information

3 Handling and documentation

Product overview

Poloxamer 188 (F68, CAS 9003-11-6, ECHA List 618-355-0) is a nonionic PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymer. Unlike a discrete molecule, it has an average molecular-mass distribution and no single molecular formula; USP represents poloxamers as HO(C2H4O)a(C3H6O)b(C2H4O)aH, while BASF describes typical P188 block ranges of a=75–85 and b=25–30 for specified grades. It is commonly supplied as white to off-white prills or powder and used for solubilization, emulsification, wetting, dispersion, formulation stabilization and shear protection in selected bioprocessing systems. Performance depends on EO/PO distribution, average molecular mass, hydroxyl value, water, pH, physical form, residuals and additives. A blanket “99% purity” claim is unsuitable for this polymer. State the exact industrial, compendial, cell-culture or pharmaceutical grade only when supported by its specification and COA; some commercial grades may contain BHT. Packaging must be confirmed for the offered product. Review the current TDS and SDS, control combustible dust where applicable, and verify destination-market and end-use requirements before purchase.

Technical information

Product	Poloxamer 188 (F68) CAS 9003-11-6
CAS number	9003-11-6
EC / list number	618-355-0
Molecular formula / identity	HO(C2H4O)a(C3H6O)b(C2H4O)aH (average triblock polymer; no single molecular formula)
Synonyms	Poloxamer 188; Polyether F68; EO/PO triblock copolymer; Poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)-block-poly(ethylene oxide); Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane
Grade	Poloxamer 188 / F68 specification-defined grade; not 99% molecular purity; confirm EO/PO profile, physical form and COA
Packaging	Moisture-protective bags or drums in supplier-confirmed net weights; confirm exact packaging and availability in the quotation

Handling and documentation

Specifications may vary by grade and batch. Confirm the current TDS, COA and SDS before purchase or use. Store and handle the product in accordance with the SDS and applicable site procedures.

FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain

Q:
Does Poloxamer 188 represent one discrete molecule or a 99% single-compound grade?

A: No. Poloxamer 188 is an EO/PO/EO block-copolymer distribution, not one discrete molecule. Its identity as a commercial grade relies on a defined average-mass range, oxyethylene content, physical form and the stated analytical methods. A percentage alone cannot describe the relevant polymer distribution or control profile.
Q:
Can Poloxamer 188 be substituted with Poloxamer 407 or another EO/PO copolymer sharing CAS 9003-11-6?

A: No. The CAS number is shared across multiple EO/PO block-copolymer grades. Poloxamer 188 and Poloxamer 407 have different block compositions and average-mass ranges, so they are not interchangeable on CAS identity. Compare the required grade definition and assess the proposed material in the intended system before replacement.
Q:
What should be confirmed when a controlled or compendial Poloxamer 188 grade is required?

A: Confirm the exact named standard, intended use and destination requirements before evaluating an offer. The actual grade’s specification, stated testing basis, batch data and applicable documentary status must be reviewed. A generic Poloxamer 188 description or a shared CAS number does not establish suitability for a controlled application.

Ordering & Documentation

Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.

Documents

COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.

Quotation

Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.

Sample & Supply

Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.

Storage & Shipping

Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.

Current Language

Change Language