Overview
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Chemical NaturePolysorbate 21, chemically described as polyoxyethylene (4) sorbitan monolaurate, is a non-ionic surfactant containing an average of approximately four moles of ethylene oxide.
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Appearance & SpecsYellow liquid | HLB Value: 13.3
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★ Primary Application (Industrial)Superior Wetting Agent. Offers unique spreading capabilities where standard solubilizers fail. Ideal for coatings, agrochemicals, and specialized emulsions.
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Vs. Standard PolysorbatesLower EO content provides distinct wetting properties different from high-mole polysorbates.
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Key FunctionsWetting agent & Industrial Emulsifier.
KOSHER CERTIFICATION
HALAL CERTIFICATION
Quality Certified
ISO 9001
Molecular Structure
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Structural ComponentsHydrophilic Segment: Sorbitan (sorbitol-derived) backbone attached to 4 ethylene oxide units.Hydrophobic Moiety: A lauric acid ester group serving as the lipophilic segment.
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★ Mechanism of ActionInterface Orientation. This specific amphiphilic structure allows it to orient precisely between oil and water phases. It is particularly effective at stabilizing emulsions and improving the dispersion of lipophilic substances in aqueous systems.
Specifications
Polysorbate 21 is a non-ionic emulsifier, dispersant and solubilizer used in personal care, agrochemical and industrial formulations. Final suitability depends on the oil phase, required HLB, processing conditions and applicable regulatory requirements.
| Test Item | Unit | Min Value | Max Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saponification Value | mg KOH/g | 41 | 52 |
| Hydroxyl Value | mg KOH/g | 90 | 107 |
| Acid Value | mg KOH/g | ≤2 | |
| Water Content | —— | ≤3% | |
| 1,4-Dioxane | mg/kg | ≤5 | |
| Ethylene Oxide | mg/kg | ≤0.2 | |
| Ethylene Glycols | —— | ≤0.25% | |
| Lead | mg/kg | ≤2 | |
Applications
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Application ProfileWith a typical HLB value of 13.3, Polysorbate 21 functions as an oil-in-water emulsifier, dispersant, solubilizer and wetting agent. Grade selection and use level should be confirmed through formulation testing and applicable destination-market requirements.
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★ Agrochemical AdjuvantsUsed as an emulsifier in agrochemical adjuvant and crop-protection formulations to support wetting and even distribution on plant surfaces. Spray coverage, formulation compatibility and crop safety should be validated in the finished formulation.
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Cosmetic FormulationsUsed to emulsify or solubilize fragrance oils and other oil-soluble ingredients in skin-care, hair-care, cleansing and related personal-care formulations.
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Water-Based Metalworking FluidsUsed to emulsify oil components in water-based metal-process cutting fluids. Emulsion stability, foam, corrosion control and machining performance should be evaluated in the final system.
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Colour and Emulsion SystemsMay also be evaluated as a dispersant or stabilizer in colour materials and emulsion-polymerization systems.
Wetting & Spreading Support
Can improve wetting and spreading of compatible liquid formulations on selected surfaces, depending on substrate and formulation conditions.
HLB 13.3 Emulsification
Provides moderately high hydrophilic character for oil-in-water emulsification and dispersion in compatible formulations.
Agrochemical Formulation Support
Can be evaluated as a wetting or emulsifying component in selected agricultural formulations, subject to formulation testing and local requirements.
Flexible Surfactant Blending
Can be blended with compatible nonionic surfactants to adjust wetting, emulsification and dispersion characteristics.
Storage & Package
- Storage ConditionsStore Polysorbate 21 in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and incompatible materials. Keep containers tightly sealed to minimize moisture exposure, oxidation, and contamination. Follow the supplier’s recommended storage temperature and shelf-life conditions.
- TransportationTransport in securely sealed, chemical-compatible containers to prevent leakage, contamination, or packaging damage. Protect the product from excessive heat and unsuitable handling conditions. Verify shipping classification against the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and applicable transport regulations.
- Standard PackagingPolysorbate 21 (Tween 21) is supplied in securely sealed, chemical-compatible containers suitable for viscous liquid surfactants. Depending on product grade and supplier availability, packaging options may include:
- 25 kg — PE Drum
- 200 kg — Drum
- 1000 kg — IBC Tote
- ★ Packaging & Shipping InformationConfirm Before Ordering.
Packaging availability, net weight, storage recommendations, and shipping requirements may vary by supplier and product grade. Please contact us for current packaging options, Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and shipment details.
25 Kg /drum
200kg/drum
