Overview
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Chemical NaturePolysorbate 61, also described as polyoxyethylene (4) sorbitan monostearate or PEG-4 sorbitan stearate, is a non-ionic surfactant containing an average of approximately four oxyethylene units.
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Appearance & HLBPale-yellow to tan waxy solid or paste at 25°C | Typical HLB: 9.6
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★ Primary FunctionWater-Dispersible Emulsifier and Co-emulsifier. Its intermediate HLB can help formulators adjust the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of oil-in-water emulsions. The appropriate emulsifier blend and use level should be confirmed through formulation and stability testing.
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Application ScopeUsed in cosmetic emulsions and evaluated in industrial systems such as coatings, color dispersions, emulsion polymerization, agrochemical adjuvants and water-based metalworking fluids.
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Regulatory PositioningPosition this product for cosmetic and industrial formulations. It should not be presented as an E-number food additive.
KOSHER CERTIFICATION
HALAL CERTIFICATION
Quality Certified
ISO 9001

Molecular Structure
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Structural ComponentsHydrophilic Region: Short polyoxyethylene chains containing an average of approximately four oxyethylene units.Hydrophobic Region: Stearate ester groups derived from stearic acid form the lipophilic portion of the surfactant.Sorbitan-Derived Core: Sorbitol-derived anhydride structures connect the polyoxyethylene chains and stearate ester groups.
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★ Interfacial FunctionIntermediate Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance. The polyoxyethylene chains interact with the aqueous phase, while the stearate groups associate with the oil phase. This amphiphilic structure supports adsorption at oil-water interfaces. With a typical HLB of 9.6, Polysorbate 61 is water-dispersible and less hydrophilic than Polysorbate 60.
Specifications
The values below are common commercial reference specifications for Polysorbate 61. The final sales specification must be confirmed against the approved supplier TDS and the batch COA.
| Test Indicator | Unit | Min Value | Max Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| HLB value | —— | 9.6 | |
| Saponification Value | mgKOH/g | 95 | 115 |
| Hydroxyl Value | mgKOH/g | 165 | 195 |
| Acid Value | mgKOH/g | - | 3 |
| HLB | - | - | 9.6 |
Applications
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Personal Care and Industrial FormulationsPolysorbate 61 is a water-dispersible non-ionic emulsifier with a typical HLB of 9.6. It may be used alone or in emulsifier blends, depending on the oil phase, processing conditions and required emulsion type.
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★ Cosmetic EmulsionsEmulsifier and Co-emulsifier. Used in creams, lotions and related personal-care emulsions. Its contribution to viscosity, skin feel and physical stability depends on the complete emulsifier system and should be confirmed in the finished formulation.
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Coatings and Color DispersionsMay be evaluated as an emulsifier or dispersion aid in waterborne coatings, color materials and related surface-treatment formulations. Compatibility, particle stability and final-film performance should be tested in the complete system.
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Water-Based Metalworking FluidsMay be used as part of an emulsifier system for water-based metal-process cutting fluids. Emulsion stability, foam, corrosion control, microbial management and machining performance should be evaluated in the finished fluid.
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Other Industrial SystemsMay also be evaluated in emulsion-polymerization systems, agrochemical adjuvants, textile emulsions and surface-coating antistatic formulations. Suitability must be confirmed for the intended process and destination market.
Intermediate HLB (9.6)
Provides a balanced hydrophilic–lipophilic profile for selected emulsion systems and emulsifier combinations.
Flexible Emulsifier Blending
Can be combined with compatible higher- or lower-HLB surfactants to adjust emulsification characteristics.
Stearate-Based Emulsification
Its stearate-derived lipophilic group supports interfacial activity in compatible oil-containing formulations.
Industrial Formulation Support
Suitable for evaluation in selected coatings, colorant dispersions, cosmetic emulsions and specialty industrial systems.



Storage & Package
- Storage ConditionsStore Polysorbate 61 in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, and incompatible materials. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and contamination. Follow the supplier’s recommended storage temperature and shelf-life conditions.
- TransportationTransport in securely sealed, chemical-compatible packaging to prevent leakage, contamination, or package 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 61 (Tween 61) is supplied in securely sealed, chemical-compatible packaging suitable for its physical form and handling requirements. Depending on product grade and supplier availability, packaging may include PE drums, lined drums, or other approved containers.Please confirm available packaging formats and net weights before ordering.
- ★ Packaging & Shipping InformationConfirm Before Ordering.
Packaging type, 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
