Sorbitan monooleate

Sorbitan Monooleate

Chemical structure of Sorbitan Monooleate

Sorbitan monooleate, also known as Span 80, is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from the dehydration of sorbitol and the esterification of the resulting sorbitan with oleic acid. It is commonly used in the formulation of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products due to its ability to stabilize emulsions.

Chemical Properties

Sorbitan monooleate is a viscous, amber-colored liquid at room temperature. It is characterized by its hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value, which is approximately 4.3, indicating its suitability for use in water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions. The chemical formula of sorbitan monooleate is C₂₄H₄₄O₆.

Applications

Sorbitan monooleate is widely used in various industries due to its emulsifying properties:

• Cosmetics: It is used in the formulation of creams, lotions, and sunscreens to stabilize emulsions and improve texture.
• Pharmaceuticals: It acts as an emulsifier in topical and oral drug formulations, enhancing the stability and bioavailability of active ingredients.
• Food Industry: It is used as an emulsifier in baked goods, margarine, and chocolate products to improve texture and shelf life.

Safety and Regulations

Sorbitan monooleate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food products. However, it is important to adhere to regulatory guidelines regarding its concentration in various applications to ensure consumer safety.

Related Pages

• Sorbitol
• Oleic acid
• Emulsifier
• Surfactant