Overview
-
Chemical IdentityPolysorbate 85, Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Trioleate, PEG-20 Sorbitan Trioleate, CAS 9005-70-3.
-
Chemical NatureNonionic surfactant consisting of polyoxyethylene derivatives of predominantly trioleate esters of sorbitol and sorbitol anhydrides, with approximately 20 ethylene oxide units on average.
-
Appearance & PropertiesYellow to amber viscous liquid | Typical HLB: 11.0
-
★ Primary Application (Industrial Emulsification)Oil Emulsification & Dispersion. Polysorbate 85 can function as an oil-in-water emulsifier or co-emulsifier in compatible industrial formulations. Its trioleate structure provides substantial oil-phase affinity, while the polyoxyethylene segments contribute hydrophilic character and interfacial activity.
-
Oil & Water CompatibilityCompatible with selected oils and organic solvents and capable of forming dispersions or emulsions in aqueous systems. Solubility, phase behavior and stability depend on concentration, temperature and formulation composition.
-
Key FunctionsEmulsification, Co-Emulsification, Oil Dispersion, Wetting & Interfacial Modification.
KOSHER CERTIFICATION
HALAL CERTIFICATION
Quality Certified
ISO 9001
Molecular Structure
-
Structural Components● Hydrophilic Segment: Polyoxyethylene chains containing approximately 20 ethylene oxide units in total, on average, contributing to affinity for the aqueous phase.● Hydrophobic Moiety: Predominantly three oleic acid-derived ester groups in the representative trioleate structure. The C18:1 fatty acid chains provide substantial affinity for oil phases.● Backbone: Sorbitol-derived and anhydrosorbitol-derived structures connect the polyoxyethylene chains with the fatty acid ester groups.
-
★ Mechanism of ActionAmphiphilic Interfacial Activity. The hydrophilic polyoxyethylene segments and lipophilic oleate groups allow Polysorbate 85 to adsorb at oil–water interfaces and reduce interfacial tension. It can support oil-in-water emulsification and oil dispersion in suitable formulations, particularly when combined with compatible co-emulsifiers.
Structural Note: Commercial Polysorbate 85 is a mixture of related ethoxylated fatty acid esters. The molecular illustration represents an idealized trioleate structure rather than the exact composition of every molecule.
Specifications
Product Characteristics
Polysorbate 85 is a yellow to amber viscous nonionic surfactant with a typical HLB value of approximately 11.0. Its polyoxyethylene trioleate structure provides a balance of hydrophilic and lipophilic characteristics suitable for emulsification, dispersion and co-emulsification in compatible formulations.
Specification Reference
The technical parameters below are provided for preliminary product evaluation. Final product specifications, analytical methods and batch-specific results should be verified against the supplier’s Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA).
| Test Parameter | Unit | minimum | maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| HLB value | —— | 11.0 | |
| Saponification Value | mgKOH/g | 83 | 98 |
| Hydroxyl Value | mgKOH/g | 40 | 60 |
| Acid Value | mgKOH/g | — | 2 |
| Moisture Content | % | — | 3 |
Applications
-
Industrial Emulsification & Oil DispersionPolysorbate 85 can serve as an emulsifier or co-emulsifier in selected oil-in-water industrial formulations. Its trioleate-derived lipophilic groups and polyoxyethylene segments provide interfacial activity that can assist with oil dispersion. Performance depends on the oil phase, surfactant blend and processing conditions.
-
Metalworking FluidsMay be evaluated as an emulsifying component in water-miscible metalworking fluids and cutting fluid concentrates. Dilution stability, foam behavior, corrosion protection and machining performance must be assessed in the complete formulation.
-
Cosmetic Cleansing & Emulsion SystemsIn suitable cosmetic-grade formulations, Polysorbate 85 may assist with oil dispersion, emulsification and the development of rinse-off cleansing systems. The formation of a milky emulsion on contact with water depends on the complete surfactant and oil composition.
-
Agrochemical Adjuvant FormulationsCan function as an emulsifying component in selected agrochemical adjuvant and oil-based formulation systems. Ingredient compatibility, emulsion stability and regulatory eligibility should be verified for the intended market and application.
-
Textile & Specialty Industrial FormulationsMay be used as a wetting, dispersing or emulsifying component in selected textile auxiliaries, surface treatments and specialty industrial formulations. Functional performance should be established through application-specific testing.
-
★ Application & Regulatory ConsiderationsApplication-Specific Evaluation. The suitability of Polysorbate 85 depends on the supplied grade, finished formulation and applicable regulatory requirements. Industrial, cosmetic and agrochemical applications may require different quality documentation and testing. Oil-spill remediation or other environmentally regulated uses must not be assumed without the relevant approvals and performance data.
Intermediate HLB (11.0)
Provides an intermediate hydrophilic–lipophilic balance for selected industrial emulsion and dispersion systems.
Oil Dispersion & Emulsification
Supports dispersion and emulsification of compatible oil-phase ingredients in selected aqueous and mixed-phase formulations.
Flexible Emulsifier Blending
Can be combined with compatible low- or high-HLB surfactants to adjust the overall interfacial balance of an emulsion system.
Industrial Formulation Support
Suitable for evaluation in selected metalworking fluids, cleaning systems, textile auxiliaries and specialty industrial formulations.
Storage & Package
-
Storage ConditionsStore Polysorbate 85 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 85 (Tween 85) 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
