Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80)

Polysorbate 80, commercially known as Tween 80, is a non-ionic surfactant and powerful emulsifier produced by the reaction of sorbitan with oleic acid followed by ethoxylation with ethylene oxide.
Due to its excellent compatibility with both aqueous and oily phases, Polysorbate 80 plays a crucial role in the formulation of numerous food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.
Its high clarity, chemical stability under various conditions, and relative safety have made it one of the most widely used industrial additives worldwide.

Chemical Structure of Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80)

The molecular structure of Polysorbate 80 consists of a sorbitan core linked via polyoxyethylene chains to oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid.
This amphiphilic structure allows it to effectively reduce surface tension between oil and water phases and form stable emulsions.

• Chemical Formula: C₆₄H₁₂₄O₂₆

• CAS Number: 9005-65-6

• Chemical Name: Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate

Physical and Chemical Properties

Applications of Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80)

Polysorbate 80 is widely utilized across multiple industries due to its excellent emulsifying and solubilizing properties:

1. Food Industry

• Improves texture, creaminess, and phase stability in ice creams, sauces, cakes, and dairy products

• Prevents separation of oil and water during storage and processing

2. Pharmaceutical Industry

• Enhances solubility of oil-soluble drugs

• Used in the preparation of injectable solutions, vaccines, and suspensions

• Provides stability to biologically active compounds

3. Cosmetics and Personal Care

• Forms stable emulsions in creams, lotions, shampoos, and conditioners

• Improves spreadability and sensory texture of formulations

4. Industrial Applications

• Used in the formulation of lubricants, coatings, and cleaning agents

• Acts as a wetting and dispersing agent in various chemical systems

Advantages of Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80)

• Excellent compatibility with a wide range of hydrophilic and lipophilic substances

• Relatively safe for food and pharmaceutical applications within approved limits

• High solubilizing power for lipophilic compounds

• Good thermal and chemical stability under normal processing conditions

• Enhances product quality in terms of texture, taste, and appearance

Limitations of Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80)

• May cause mild allergic reactions or skin sensitivity in certain individuals

• Reduced stability under highly acidic or alkaline conditions

• Susceptible to oxidation when exposed to high temperatures over prolonged periods

• Limited use in organic or additive-free products

Safety and Storage

• Storage Conditions:

  • Store in sealed containers, away from direct sunlight

  • Maintain temperature between 15–25°C

  • Avoid exposure to strong oxidizing agents

• Safety:

  • Considered safe for use within the dosage limits established by international standards (FDA, EFSA, etc.)

  • Protective gloves and safety goggles should be worn during industrial handling

Summary

Polysorbate 80 (Tween 80) is a versatile, non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier with broad applications in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial sectors.
Its unique amphiphilic nature enables it to stabilize emulsions, enhance solubility, and improve the overall performance of formulated products.
Owing to its stability, efficiency, and safety, it remains an indispensable ingredient in modern formulation science and manufacturing processes.