Polyether derivatives, their use as emulsifiers, and emulsions

Abstract

New polyether derivatives obtained by gradually adding at temperatures between 100.degree. and 200.degree. C. a long-chain 1,2-epoxide having a chain length of 10 to 32 carbon atoms to either (1) polyethylene glycol monoalkyl ether whose mean molecular weight is 400 to 2500 and whose alkyl group contains 1 to 3 carbon atoms; or to (2) a polyethylene glycol-polypropylene glycol monoalkyl ether whose mean molecular weight is 450 to 3100, whose recurring ethylene oxide units and propylene oxide units form a block each, the polypropylene glycol block having a mean molecular weight of not more than 600 and whose alkyl group forms the end of the polyethylene glycol block and contains 1 to 3 carbon atoms, using 0.1 to 1% by weight of alkali hydroxide related to the total amount of the starting substances. These polyether derivatives correspond to the general formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 represents an aliphatic hydrocarbon radical containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms;