Polysorbate 85 (Tween 85) – Trioleate Oil Dispersant

Overview

  • Chemical Nature
    Polyoxyethylene (5) Sorbitan Monooleate. Contains reduced Ethylene Oxide (5 moles) compared to Tween 80.
  • Appearance & Specs
    Amber oily liquid  |  HLB Value: 10.0
  • Primary Application (Industrial)
    Powerful Coupling Agent. Unique intermediate HLB bridges the gap between oil and water phases. Solves separation issues in difficult formulations.
  • Lubricity & Stability
    Excellent lubricity and stability in mineral oils and solvents.
  • Key Functions
    Coupling Agent & Emulsifier.

Molecular Structure

  • Structural Components
    Hydrophilic Segment: Polyoxyethylene chain introduced through ethylene oxide units (totaling approx. 20 as per formula a+b+c+d=20).
    Hydrophobic Moiety: Fatty acid moiety derived from sorbitan esters (structure indicates multiple fatty acid chains, characteristic of a tri-ester).
    Backbone: Sorbitan backbone that links the hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments.
  • Mechanism of Action
    Amphiphilic Architecture. The structure enables the molecule to position itself efficiently at oil–water interfaces. It works to reduce surface tension and stabilize emulsions effectively, leveraging its balance of hydrophilic chains and hydrophobic fatty acid tails.

Specifications:

Polysorbate 85 is typically used at moderate to high levels in formulations, given its hydrophilic, non-ionic surfactant nature. Due to its composition, it ensures good solubility in aqueous phases and helps maintain stable oil-in-water dispersions. As established for the polysorbate group, it is recognized as safe at current usage levels.
Test ParameterUnitminimummaximum
HLB value——11.0
Saponification ValuemgKOH/g8398
Hydroxyl ValuemgKOH/g4060
Acid ValuemgKOH/g2
Moisture Content%3

Applications:

  • Oil Spill Dispersants:Used in environmental formulations to break down marine oil slicks into biodegradable droplets.
  • Cosmetic Cleansing Oils: The primary ingredient in “wash-off” makeup removers. It dissolves waterproof makeup (due to high oil affinity) and then turns milky (emulsifies) when rinsed with water.
  • Textile & Leather: Acts as a friction-reducing lubricant and antistatic agent for synthetic fibers.
  • Industrial Drilling Fluids: Used in oil-based drilling muds to maintain viscosity and emulsion stability under pressure.
Superior Oil Dispersion

The Trioleate structure makes it exceptionally effective at penetrating and breaking apart oil layers, making it a top choice for industrial degreasers and spill remediation.

“Blooming" Effect (Cosmetics)

In bath oils and cleansers, Tween 85 creates a spontaneous, milky white emulsion (‘bloom’) upon contact with water, providing a visual cue of efficacy and a luxurious rinse-off feel.

Low-Foaming Profile

Generates significantly less foam than Tween 20 or 80 due to its triple fatty acid chain, ideal for high-agitation industrial processes.

High Solvent Compatibility

Excellent solubility in vegetable oils, mineral oils, and organic solvents, allowing it to be easily formulated into anhydrous (water-free) concentrates.

Laboratory demonstration of Polysorbate 85 breaking down a layer of oil into water, showcasing its dispersant properties.
Golden cosmetic cleansing oil turning milky white upon contact with water, demonstrating the blooming effect of Polysorbate 85
Industrial gears coated in a protective lubricant film formulated with Polysorbate 85 friction reducer.

storage & package:

Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
Avoid contact with harmful or incompatible substances. Handle with care during transportation to prevent leakage or contamination.

Transportation:
Transport as a general chemical product, following standard safety and handling procedures.

Package:
polysorbate 85 is packed in high-quality PE drums with double-seal lids.
Standard packaging sizes include 25kg/drum, 200kg/drum, and 1000kg IBC tote to meet different usage needs.

25 Kg /drum
200kg/drum
1000kg IBC

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