Polysorbate-80 (Tween-80)
Product Overview
Polysorbate-80, commonly known by the trade name Tween-80, is a nonionic surfactant also known as polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate. It is used to emulsify and disperse compatible oils in water-based systems and may also serve as a solubilizer or wetting agent.
Compared with Polysorbate-20, Polysorbate-80 has an oleate-based fatty-acid component rather than a laurate-based component. This difference can affect its behaviour and compatibility in formulations.
MNTENT.com helps manufacturers, formulators, and product developers source selected formulation raw materials in practical quantities for testing and product development, subject to availability.
Key Features and Benefits
- Nonionic surfactant
- Used as an emulsifier for compatible oil-and-water systems
- Helps disperse selected oily ingredients
- Can support wetting and solubilization in suitable formulations
- Useful in laboratory testing and formulation development
- Grade and small-quantity availability depend on current stock
Applications
Depending on the grade and intended use, Polysorbate-80 may be used in:
- Selected cosmetic and personal-care formulations
- Emulsion and oil-dispersion development
- Fragrance-related formulations where suitable
- Selected industrial and cleaning formulations
- Laboratory testing and formulation trials
- Food or pharmaceutical applications only when the appropriate grade and regulatory requirements are confirmed
The required concentration depends on the oil phase, desired emulsion type, other ingredients, and processing conditions. Stability testing is necessary before commercial production.
Product Specifications
- Product Name: Polysorbate-80
- Trade Name: Tween-80
- Chemical Name: Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monooleate
- CAS Number: 9005-65-6
- Chemical Type: Nonionic surfactant
- Primary Functions: Emulsifier, solubilizer, and wetting agent
- Appearance: Typically yellow to amber, viscous liquid
- Water Compatibility: Dispersible in water; behaviour depends on formulation and conditions
- Grade: Confirm from supplier documentation
- Packaging: Confirm available pack sizes before ordering
Exact appearance, viscosity, moisture content, and other quality parameters should be verified against the supplier’s Certificate of Analysis (COA).
Why Source Polysorbate-80 from MNTENT.com?
MNTENT.com supports businesses and product developers looking for selected formulation raw materials in practical quantities. Small-quantity availability can help with preliminary emulsification trials, ingredient compatibility checks, and stability evaluations before purchasing larger volumes.
Availability, grade, packaging, and specifications should be confirmed before ordering.
Storage and Handling
- Store in a tightly closed, compatible container.
- Follow the supplier’s recommended storage temperature and conditions.
- Protect the product from contamination.
- Wear suitable gloves and eye protection during handling.
- Avoid unnecessary eye and skin contact.
- Follow the supplier’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
- Keep away from children and unauthorised personnel.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Polysorbate-80?
Polysorbate-80 is a nonionic surfactant commonly known as Tween-80. It is used primarily as an emulsifier and dispersing agent in compatible formulations.
2. What is the CAS number of Polysorbate-80?
The commonly used CAS number is 9005-65-6.
3. What is Polysorbate-80 used for?
It is used to help emulsify and disperse compatible oils and to support wetting or solubilization in selected formulations.
4. What is the difference between Tween-20 and Tween-80?
Tween-20 is based on a laurate component, while Tween-80 is based on an oleate component. Their performance and compatibility can differ, so they are not automatically interchangeable.
5. Can Polysorbate-80 be used in cosmetic formulations?
It may be used in suitable cosmetic formulations when the grade is appropriate and all applicable safety and regulatory requirements are met.
6. Is Polysorbate-80 suitable for every oil?
No. Performance depends on the oil, formulation ratios, processing conditions, and desired emulsion properties. Conduct compatibility and stability tests.
7. Can I purchase a small quantity for testing?
Small quantities may be available from MNTENT.com, subject to current stock and packaging options.
