Tween 80 Liquid Product Description
Tween 80, also known as Polysorbate 80, is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol and oleic acid. It is a clear to slightly yellow liquid that is soluble in water and has a mild, sweet odor. Tween 80 is widely used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biotechnology, due to its excellent emulsifying, dispersing, and stabilizing properties. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of products, making it an essential ingredient in formulations that require the mixing of oil and water.
Uses of Tween 80
- Food Industry: Acts as an emulsifier in salad dressings, sauces, and ice creams to maintain texture and prevent separation.
- Pharmaceuticals: Used in drug formulations to enhance solubility and bioavailability of active ingredients, particularly in oral and injectable medications.
- Cosmetics: Functions as a surfactant in creams, lotions, and shampoos, improving spreadability and stability.
- Biotechnology: Employed in cell culture media and as a stabilizer for proteins and enzymes in various laboratory applications.
- Agriculture: Utilized as a wetting agent and emulsifier in pesticide formulations to enhance the effectiveness of active ingredients.
Technical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Polysorbate 80 |
| CAS Number | 9005-65-6 |
| Molecular Weight | 1310.5 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear to slightly yellow liquid |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| HLB (Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance) | 15.0 |
| pH (1% solution) | 5.0 – 7.0 |
| Viscosity | 100 – 300 cP |
| Flash Point | > 100 °C |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry place |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture |
Key Features
- Emulsification: Effectively stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications across multiple industries.
- Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products by the FDA.
- Compatibility: Compatible with a variety of other surfactants and ingredients.
Conclusion
Tween 80 is a versatile and essential ingredient in many formulations, providing stability and enhancing the performance of products across various sectors. Its unique properties make it a preferred choice for manufacturers looking to improve the quality and effectiveness of their products.