Alcohol ethoxylates and alkylphenol ethoxylates are important surfactants in household and industrial cleaners. They may be used as either nonionic surfactants or sulfated and used as anionic surfactants. Careful control of the ethoxylate characteristics is desired as variations may result in either desirable or undesirable end-use properties.

1.1 These test methods cover the various test methods used to evaluate those properties pertinent to the characterization of alcohol ethoxylates and alkylphenol ethoxylates with respect to suitability for desired uses.

1.2 The procedures for sampling and analysis appear in the following order:

	Sections
Sampling
Liquids	6
Solids	7
Methods of Chemical Analysis
Water or moisture	8
Refractive index	9 and 10
pH	11
Acidity or basicity	12 and 13
Hydroxyl number	14-20
Cloud point	21
Iodine number	22
Ash	23
Iron	24
Ethylene oxide content	25
Polyethylene glycols	26-32

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Material Safety Data Sheets are available for reagents and materials. Review them for hazards prior to usage. Specific hazard statements appear in Section 5 and Note 1 and Note 3.