Polysorbate 20

Polysorbate 20, also known as polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate. It consists of sorbitol, ethylene oxide, and lauric acid. It has a molecular formula of C₅₈H₁₁₄O₂₆. At room temperature, polyoxyethylene monolaurate is in the form of a pale-yellow to yellow viscous liquid at room temperature. Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate is an O/W emulsifier with a polysorbate 20 HLB of 16.7. Polysorbate 20 is great at emulsifying and stabilizing oils in water. Polysorbate 20 uses as a solubilizers and penetrants and dispersants in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations. It can also use as a softener, finishing agent, antistatic agent, and lubricant in the textile industry.

Polysorbate 20 CAS NO.: 9005-64-5
E NO.: E432
MOLECULAR FORMULA: C₅₈H₁₁₄O₂₆
MOLECULAR WEIGHT: 1226.48

Polysorbate 20 MSDS

Technical Information of Polysorbate 20

According to GB29221-2012, other parameters are available upon request.

Parameters	Unit	Standard value
Acid value	mg KOH/g	≤2.0
Saponification value	mg KOH/g	40~50
Hydroxyl value	mg KOH/g	96~108
Moisture	w/%	≤3.0
Residue on ignition	w/%	≤0.25
Pb	mg/kg	≤2
Oxyethylene	w/%	70.0~74.0

Polysorbate 20 Chemical Structure

Polyoxyethylene 20 Sorbitan Monooleate

Advantages of Polysorbate 20

It is soluble in water, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and toluene
It has multiple functions in numerous formulations
Can be used in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and industry

Is Polysorbate 20 Safe?

According to the scientific data collected by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, polysorbate 20 is safe for use in cosmetic and skin care products. Performing the role of emulsifier, the addition of polysorbate 20 in cosmetic products is also safe for pregnant women. Whereas, it is still worth noting that too much addition of this polyethoxylated sorbitan can possibly lead to skin irritation and it can cause skin tingling when the cuticle is thin and inflammation occurs.