Product Description
Polyoxyethylene Sorbitan Monolaurate, commonly known as Tween 20, is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol and lauric acid. It is widely used in various industries due to its ability to stabilize emulsions, enhance solubility, and improve the texture of products. Tween 20 is characterized by its low toxicity and excellent compatibility with a wide range of substances, making it a popular choice in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations. Its chemical structure allows it to reduce surface tension, facilitating the mixing of oil and water-based ingredients.
Uses
- Food Industry: Used as an emulsifier in salad dressings, sauces, and baked goods to improve texture and stability.
- Pharmaceuticals: Acts as a solubilizer for poorly soluble drugs, enhancing bioavailability and stability in liquid formulations.
- Cosmetics: Commonly found in creams, lotions, and shampoos to improve spreadability and texture.
- Biotechnology: Utilized in cell culture media and as a stabilizer for proteins and enzymes.
- Agriculture: Employed as a surfactant in pesticide formulations to enhance the spread and adhesion of active ingredients.
Technical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 9005-64-5 |
| Chemical Formula | C₃₃H₆₄O₆ |
| Molecular Weight | 524.7 g/mol |
| Appearance | Yellowish to amber liquid |
| HLB Value | 16.7 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and oils |
| pH (1% solution) | 5.0 – 7.0 |
| Viscosity | 100 – 300 cP |
| Flash Point | > 100 °C |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry place |
Key Features
- Non-ionic: Does not carry a charge, making it compatible with a wide range of formulations.
- Low Toxicity: Safe for use in food and personal care products.
- Versatile: Effective in both oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions.
- Stabilizing Agent: Helps maintain the stability of emulsions over time.
Summary
Tween 20 is a versatile and effective emulsifier and surfactant that finds applications across various industries. Its ability to enhance the stability and texture of products makes it an essential ingredient in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and more. With its favorable safety profile and compatibility with numerous formulations, Tween 20 continues to be a preferred choice for manufacturers looking to improve product performance.