Polysorbates

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Polysorbates are a class of nonionic surfactants derived from sorbitol and fatty acids, commonly used as emulsifiers, solubilizers, and dispersing agents in a wide range of industries. They improve the mixing of oil and water phases, stabilize emulsions, and enhance the texture and consistency of formulations. Polysorbates are widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food products, and industrial applications due to their biocompatibility, low toxicity, and effectiveness at low concentrations.

Description

Primary Uses
Pharmaceutical Industry

Used as emulsifiers and solubilizing agents in oral, topical, and injectable drug formulations.

Helps to stabilize suspensions and emulsions.

Improves bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs.

Food Industry

Acts as emulsifiers in baked goods, ice creams, salad dressings, and beverages.

Enhances texture, shelf life, and consistency of food products.

Used in fat-based spreads and confectionery to improve mixing and prevent separation.

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Emulsifies oils and water in creams, lotions, shampoos, and conditioners.

Enhances product texture, stability, and skin feel.

Helps disperse fragrances and active ingredients evenly.

Industrial Applications

Used in textile processing, detergents, and paints as emulsifiers and dispersants.

Facilitates the formulation of emulsions and suspensions in various manufacturing processes.

 

Secondary Uses
Agriculture

Used as adjuvants in pesticide formulations to improve spreading and adhesion.

Biomedical Research

Employed as stabilizers in vaccine formulations and cell culture media.

Lubricants and Coatings

Improves miscibility and stability in lubricant and coating formulations.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Polyoxyethylene sorbitan esters (varies by fatty acid chain)

Common/Trade Name: Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 40, Polysorbate 60, Polysorbate 80 (most common types)

CAS Number: Varies (e.g., Polysorbate 80: 9005-65-6)

HS Code: 3402.19.00 (Surface-active agents)

Synonyms: Tween (common trade name), Polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters

 

Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Viscous liquid or semi-solid

Color: Pale yellow to amber

Odor: Mild, characteristic odor

pH: Typically 6.0–8.0 in aqueous solution

Solubility: Soluble in water and alcohol; forms stable emulsions

HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance): Range from 8.6 to 16.7 depending on type (higher HLB = more hydrophilic)

Density: Approx. 1.05 g/cm³

 

Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Generally not classified as hazardous

Toxicity: Low toxicity; considered safe for food and cosmetic use within regulatory limits

Irritation Potential: Mild skin and eye irritant at high concentrations

Flammability: Non-flammable

 

Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat

Container Type: Supplied in plastic drums, bottles, or bulk containers

Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly

Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation of aerosols and prolonged skin contact

 

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with:

FDA regulations for food-grade emulsifiers

Cosmetic ingredient safety standards (e.g., EU Cosmetic Regulation)

USP/NF monographs for pharmaceutical grades

REACH and other international chemical safety regulations

 

Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact when used as directed

Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate

Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as hazardous

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required: Gloves and safety goggles recommended during handling of concentrated material

Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhalation of mist or aerosols

Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed; avoid contamination

 

First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air if irritation occurs

Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists

Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues

Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if discomfort or symptoms develop

 

Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Not flammable but can burn under fire conditions

Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚

Special Precautions: Use standard protective equipment

Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon oxides and other toxic fumes during combustion