Polysorbate 20
- Express Shipping
- Low stock - 10 items left
- Inventory on the way
Polysorbate 20 is a synthetic compound that belongs to the class of chemicals known as polysorbates. It is a water-soluble surfactant and emulsifier, which means it helps mix substances that do not naturally combine, such as oil and water. Polysorbate 20 is made from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and lauric acid (a fatty acid).
It is commonly used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and personal care products
As a solubiliser, it helps both essential oils and fragrance oils to attach to various types of cosmetic bases, including liquid, cream, and gel bases, and thereby prevents the oils and bases from separating. As a dispersant, it also helps to diffuse oils throughout water and to prevent the oils from clumping or settling. As an anti-static agent, Polysorbate 20 helps to reduce and prevent the buildup of static charges. Furthermore, it is a thickener as well as a viscosity modifier, which helps prevent changes to a product’s viscosity when it is subjected to varying room temperatures, such as extreme cold or heat.
Shampoos and Conditioners: It helps distribute and solubilise oil-based ingredients.
Body Washes and Shower Gels: Enhances the mixing of oil and water components.
Cosmetic Creams and Lotions: Improves texture and stability.
Makeup Removers: Assists in breaking down and removing makeup.
Cleaning Products: Some household cleaning products use polysorbate 20 to help emulsify and disperse oils and greasy substances.
Chemical Name: Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate
CAS Number: 9005-64-5
Molecular Formula: C58H114O26
Molecular Weight: Approximately 1227 g/mol
Appearance: Polysorbate 20 is a clear to slightly hazy, yellowish liquid.
Solubility: Polysorbate 20 is soluble in water, alcohol, and various organic solvents.
pH: The pH of a 1% aqueous solution of Polysorbate 20 is typically in the range of 5.0 to 7.5.
Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB): Polysorbate 20 has an HLB value around 16.7, indicating its ability to act as an emulsifier in both water-in-oil (W/O) and oil-in-water (O/W) systems.
Cloud Point: The cloud point of Polysorbate 20 is the temperature at which the solution becomes turbid due to the separation of the surfactant. It varies depending on concentration and other factors.
Density: The density of Polysorbate 20 is typically around 1.09 g/mL.
Flash Point: Polysorbate 20 is not flammable. It does not have a flash point as it is not combustible.
Viscosity: The viscosity of Polysorbate 20 is relatively low, contributing to its ease of incorporation into various formulations.
Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of Polysorbate 20 is approximately 1.08 to 1.09.
Refractive Index: The refractive index of Polysorbate 20 is around 1.47.
Shelf Life: Polysorbate 20 is generally stable under normal storage conditions. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Usage: Polysorbate 20 is used in a variety of applications, primarily as an emulsifier, dispersant, and solubilizing agent in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food products, and other industrial formulations.