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Span 80

Span 80, chemically known as Sorbitan Monooleate, is a widely used non-ionic emulsifier produced by the esterification of sorbitol with oleic acid.
Due to its low HLB value (approximately 4.3), it is primarily employed in water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions across the food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries.

Chemical Structure

  • Chemical Name: Sorbitan Monooleate

  • Molecular Formula: C₂₄H₄₄O₆

  • Molecular Weight: ≈ 428.6 g/mol

  • Chemical Type: Non-ionic fatty acid ester

  • Molecular Structure: Composed of a sorbitan (dehydrated sorbitol) core linked to an oleic acid chain

  • HLB Value: ~4.3 (ideal for W/O emulsions)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property Typical Value
Appearance Yellowish-brown viscous liquid
Odor Mild, fatty
Solubility in Water Practically insoluble (dispersible with co-emulsifiers)
Density (20°C) ≈ 0.986 g/cm³
Freezing Point ≈ 5°C
pH Stability Stable in neutral pH; sensitive to strong acidic or alkaline conditions
Ionic Nature Non-ionic

Applications

1. Food Industry

  • Used to stabilize water-in-oil emulsions in margarine, sauces, and dairy-based products

  • Improves texture, consistency, and emulsion stability

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care

  • Emulsifier in creams, lotions, and oil-based formulations

  • Provides smooth texture, enhances spreadability, and stabilizes fatty phases

3. Pharmaceutical Industry

  • Used in lipophilic drug delivery systems and topical formulations

  • Enhances dispersion and bioavailability of active ingredients

4. Paints and Coatings

  • Acts as a dispersing and stabilizing agent for pigments in non-polar media

5. Agricultural Chemicals

  • Serves as an emulsifying agent in oil-based pesticide formulations

Advantages

  • Excellent emulsifying ability for W/O systems

  • Non-toxic and approved for use in food and cosmetic applications (within regulated limits)

  • High compatibility with various oils and fats

  • Contributes to increased viscosity and enhanced emulsion stability

Limitations

  • Low water solubility, requiring combination with higher-HLB emulsifiers (e.g., Tweens) for O/W systems

  • Reduced stability in strongly acidic or alkaline environments

  • May cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals at high concentrations

Safety and Storage

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight

  • Packaging: Typically supplied in sealed plastic or metal drums

  • Safety: Generally non-hazardous under normal use conditions

    • Avoid direct contact with eyes; rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs

  • Shelf Life: Minimum 24 months under recommended conditions

Summary

Span 80 (Sorbitan Monooleate) is a non-ionic, oil-soluble emulsifier with a low HLB value, making it ideal for water-in-oil emulsions.
It is extensively used in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and chemical formulations to enhance stability, texture, and viscosity.
With its natural fatty acid origin, biocompatibility, and broad industry acceptance, Span 80 remains one of the most versatile emulsifiers in modern formulation science.

Span 80

Applications

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Span 80