Chemical Structure and Composition
For formulation engineers and R&D managers seeking a comprehensive polysorbate 20 TDS overview, understanding the fundamental chemical architecture of this surfactant is the prerequisite for successful application. Polysorbate 20, commercially known as Tween 20, is a non-ionic surfactant belonging to the polysorbate family. It is synthesized via the ethoxylation of sorbitan monolaurate.
As a specialized manufacturer, foodemul.com ensures that the synthesis process yields a high-purity reagent suitable for sensitive applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The molecule functions as a wetting agent, stabilizer, and solubilizer, driven entirely by its distinct hydrophilic and lipophilic moieties.
Molecular Makeup of Polysorbate 20
The polysorbate 20 chemical structure is characterized by a sorbitan core esterified with lauric acid (a medium-chain fatty acid) and ethoxylated with approximately 20 moles of ethylene oxide. This specific configuration results in a molecule that is predominantly hydrophilic.
- Chemical Name: Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate
- Molecular Formula: C58H114O26 (approximate)
- CAS Number: 9005-64-5
- E-Number: E432
The lauric acid tail provides the lipophilic (oil-loving) character, while the polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains attached to the sorbitan ring provide the hydrophilic (water-loving) character. This balance is critical for its performance as an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier.
Key Physical and Chemical Properties (TDS Data)
Accurate formulation requires precise technical data. The following section details the polysorbate 20 properties relevant to stability testing and process engineering.
Polysorbate 20 HLB Value and Emulsification
The hlb polysorbate 20 value is a defining characteristic for formulation chemists. With a Hydrophile-Lipophile Balance (HLB) of 16.7, Polysorbate 20 is classified as a high-HLB surfactant. This indicates a strong affinity for water, making it an exceptional solubilizer for essential oils, fragrances, and lipophilic actives in aqueous systems. It is frequently used in conjunction with lower HLB surfactants (such as Sorbitan Monolaurate/Span 20) to achieve optimal emulsion stability.
Solubility Profile: Water and Organic Solvents
Understanding polysorbate 20 solubility is vital for phase compatibility. Due to its high degree of ethoxylation, it exhibits the following solubility characteristics:
| Solvent | Solubility Status |
|---|---|
| Water | Soluble (Clear to slightly hazy solution) |
| Ethanol | Soluble |
| Methanol | Soluble |
| Mineral Oil | Insoluble |
| Vegetable Oils | Insoluble (or dispersible depending on concentration) |
Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) & Melting Point
The critical micelle concentration polysorbate 20 is approximately 0.06 mM (approx. 60 mg/L) in water at 25°C. Above this concentration, the surfactant molecules aggregate to form micelles, which is the mechanism responsible for solubilizing hydrophobic substances. Regarding thermal properties, the polysorbate 20 melting point is not a singular value due to its polymeric nature; however, it remains a viscous liquid at room temperature with a pour point typically below 0°C, facilitating easy handling in cold-process manufacturing.
Standard Polysorbate 20 Specifications
At foodemul.com, we adhere to strict quality control measures. Below are the typical polysorbate 20 specifications found in a standard Technical Data Sheet (TDS):
| Parameter | Specification Range | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Yellow to amber oily liquid | – |
| Acid Value | Max 2.0 | mg KOH/g |
| Saponification Value | 40 – 50 | mg KOH/g |
| Hydroxyl Value | 96 – 108 | mg KOH/g |
| Water Content | Max 3.0 | % |
| Heavy Metals | Max 10 | ppm |
Functional Applications and Behavior
Beyond the raw data, understanding how this surfactant behaves in a dynamic environment is crucial for application success.
Surfactant Behavior: Does Polysorbate 20 Foam?
A common query from formulators is: does polysorbate 20 foam? The answer is yes, it exhibits moderate foaming properties. While it is not typically used as a primary foaming agent (unlike anionic surfactants like SLS), its foam structure is relatively stable. In cosmetic applications such as facial cleansers or micellar waters, it provides gentle cleansing action without stripping lipids from the skin. In industrial applications, antifoaming agents may be required if high-shear mixing is utilized.
Safety, Specifications, and Regulatory Compliance
Regulatory compliance is a cornerstone of the foodemul.com value proposition. We ensure our surfactants meet global safety standards for export and domestic use.
Toxicology Profile: Is Polysorbate 20 Safe?
When evaluating polysorbate 20 safety, the consensus among global regulatory bodies is positive. Is polysorbate 20 safe for consumption and topical application? Yes.
- FDA: Listed as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) for use as a food additive.
- CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review): Deemed safe for use in cosmetic formulations.
- EU Regulation: Approved as food additive E432.
Regulatory Note: While Polysorbate 20 is safe, formulators must ensure the grade purchased complies with the specific purity requirements of their industry (e.g., low 1,4-dioxane levels for cosmetics).
Dietary & Ethical Compliance: Is Polysorbate 20 Vegan?
With the rise of plant-based formulations, procurement officers frequently ask: is polysorbate 20 vegan? Chemically, Polysorbate 20 can be derived from either animal fats or vegetable oils. However, foodemul.com exclusively manufactures Polysorbate 20 using fatty acids derived from vegetable sources (typically coconut, corn, or palm oil).
To ensure full compliance with ethical sourcing standards, our products are:
- Vegetable-Origin: Suitable for Vegan and Vegetarian products.
- RSPO Certified: Available options for sustainably sourced palm oil derivatives.
- Halal & Kosher: Certified grades available upon request.
By leveraging this polysorbate 20 TDS overview, formulators can confidently integrate this versatile surfactant into high-stability products, backed by the supply chain reliability of foodemul.com.
