Hydroxy mixed ethers having a high degree of ethoxylation, compositions containing the same and anti-foam uses therefor

Hydroxy mixed ethers of the general formula (I):

wherein R¹ represents a linear or branched, alkyl or alkenyl group having from 4 to 22 carbon atoms; R² represents a linear or branched, alkyl or alkenyl group having from 2 to 22 carbon atoms; and x represents a number of from 40 to 80, are described along with compositions containing such hydroxy mixed ethers in conjunction with other surfactants. Also described are various anti-foaming uses for such ethers and compositions containing the same.