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Sorbitan Monooleate (Span 80)

Updated: 2026-07-15

Overview

Sorbitan Monooleate, commonly known as Span 80, is a nonionic surfactant synthesized from sorbitol and oleic acid. It belongs to the sorbitan ester family and is widely used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in various industries. Its amphiphilic nature allows it to reduce surface tension between oil and water phases, making it valuable in formulations requiring stable emulsions. Span 80 is particularly favored in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical applications due to its biocompatibility and regulatory approvals. Its versatility extends to industrial uses, such as lubricants and textile processing, where emulsification and wetting properties are critical.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Span 80 is an amber to brown viscous liquid with a mild odor. It has a molecular weight of 428.60 g/mol and a density close to 1.00 g/cm³. The compound is soluble in most organic solvents and oils but insoluble in water, a property that defines its role in water-in-oil emulsions. Its chemical structure includes a sorbitan backbone esterified with oleic acid, providing both hydrophilic (sorbitol) and lipophilic (oleic acid) regions. This balance enables effective interfacial activity, making it suitable for stabilizing emulsions and dispersions in complex formulations.

Main Applications

In the food industry, Span 80 is used as an emulsifier in products like ice cream, baked goods, and margarine to improve texture and shelf life. It is also employed in whipped toppings and synthetic creamers to stabilize air bubbles and prevent separation. Cosmetics and personal care products leverage Span 80 for its emulsifying properties in creams, lotions, and makeup. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a solubilizing agent for hydrophobic drugs. Industrial applications include lubricant additives, pesticide formulations, and textile auxiliaries, where its surfactant properties enhance performance.

Safety and Storage

Span 80 is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food use by regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA. However, prolonged skin contact or eye exposure should be avoided, as it may cause mild irritation. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and goggles, is recommended during handling. Storage conditions should prioritize cool, dry environments away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation. Containers must be tightly sealed to avoid moisture absorption or contamination. Bulk storage in stainless steel or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers is advised for industrial-scale procurement.

B2B Procurement Guide

When procuring Span 80, buyers should prioritize suppliers with certifications like ISO, USP, or FCC compliance to ensure quality and safety. Key specifications to verify include purity (typically 98-99%), acid value, and hydroxyl value, which impact performance in formulations. Price varies based on quantity, purity, and supplier location, with bulk purchases (e.g., drum or tanker quantities) offering cost advantages. Sample testing is recommended to confirm compatibility with specific applications. Long-term contracts with reliable suppliers can mitigate price volatility and ensure consistent supply chain stability.

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