Tween 20 (Polysorbate 20)

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Tween 20, also known as Polysorbate 20, is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from the esterification of sorbitan (from sorbitol) with fatty acids, followed by ethoxylation. It is a pale yellow to amber viscous liquid that is completely soluble in water, making it ideal for emulsifying oil-in-water systems. Tween 20 is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, biotechnology, and industrial formulations due to its excellent emulsifying, dispersing, solubilizing, and stabilizing properties.

Description

Primary Uses
Cosmetics and Personal Care:

Used as an emulsifier in creams, lotions, and cleansers for stable oil-in-water emulsions.

Functions as a solubilizer for essential oils and fragrances in body sprays, shampoos, and facial mists.

Acts as a surfactant and wetting agent in formulations for skin and hair care.

Pharmaceutical Industry:

Used as a solubilizing agent for poorly water-soluble active ingredients.

Acts as a stabilizer in injectable solutions, ophthalmic formulations, and oral suspensions.

Employed in vaccine formulations as a dispersing agent for antigens.

Food Industry (Food Grade):

Used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in sauces, ice cream, dressings, and beverages.

Helps in dispersing flavor oils and preventing separation in processed foods.

Often included in bakery mixes for texture improvement and shelf-life extension.

Biotechnology & Laboratory Use:

Functions as a blocking agent in Western blotting and ELISA to prevent non-specific binding.

Used as a detergent in cell lysis buffers and protein purification protocols.

Aids in membrane protein solubilization and micelle formation for biochemical studies.

Secondary Uses
Household and Industrial Cleaners:

Used as a wetting agent and emulsifier in surface cleaners, detergents, and disinfectants.

Paints and Coatings:

Functions as a dispersant and stabilizer in water-based paints and inks to improve pigment distribution.

Agrochemical Formulations:

Included in pesticide and herbicide emulsions for better spreadability and adhesion on plant surfaces.

Textile Industry:

Used as a fiber wetting and softening agent in finishing processes.

Medical Devices and Diagnostics:

Applied in coating processes for diagnostic tools and test strips to improve hydrophilicity.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate

Common/Trade Name: Tween 20, Polysorbate 20

CAS Number: 9005-64-5

HS Code: 3402.13.00

Synonyms: Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, PEG-20 sorbitan laurate

 

Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Viscous liquid

Color & Odor: Pale yellow to amber; mild fatty odor

Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling

Solubility: Completely soluble in water, ethanol, and other polar solvents

pH (1% solution): 5.0–7.0

Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB): ~16.7 (highly hydrophilic)

Viscosity: ~400 cps (at 25°C)

Density: ~1.10 g/cm³

 

Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous

Toxicity: Low toxicity; considered safe for use in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications

Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits; handle with general hygiene practices

 

Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place away from light and oxidizing agents

Container Type: HDPE drums or food-grade containers

Shelf Life: 24 months under proper storage

Handling Precautions: Avoid contamination and prolonged exposure to air

 

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Approved by FDA and EFSA for food and pharmaceutical use

Listed in USP, BP, and EP pharmacopoeias

Complies with REACH, TSCA, and GMP standards

Allowed in COSMOS and ECOCERT certified natural cosmetic formulations

Adheres to OSHA and GHS chemical labeling requirements

 

Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions

Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms

Bioaccumulation: Not expected

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

PPE Required: Gloves and eye protection in bulk handling

Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated area; prevent contamination

Storage Measures: Keep container sealed and away from incompatible materials (oxidizers)

 

First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Not hazardous under normal conditions; move to fresh air if discomfort occurs

Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water if irritation develops

Eye Contact: Rinse with water; seek medical help if irritation persists

Ingestion: Rinse mouth; product is low-toxicity but medical advice is recommended in large quantities

 

Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Slightly combustible at high temperatures

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

Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and ethylene oxide traces