Polysorbate 80
Chemical name: Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate
Synonyms: Tween 80, Sorbitan monooleate ethoxylate
CAS number: 9005-65-6
EC number: 500-019-5
Formula: C64H124O26 (approximate)
Form: Non-ionic surfactant / emulsifier
Product Specification
| Appearance | Amber to orange viscous liquid |
| Odour | Faint, characteristic |
| pH (5% solution) | ~5.0 – 7.0 |
| Density (20 °C) | ~1.06 g mL-1 |
| HLB value | ~15 (more lipophilic than Polysorbate 20) |
| Solubility | Fully soluble in water and alcohol |
Applications
- Emulsifier for oil-in-water systems, especially with heavier oils
- Solubiliser and dispersant for essential oils and hydrophobic actives
- Stabiliser in creams, lotions, and pharmaceutical formulations
- Emollient and solubiliser in oral and topical products
- Food additive (when supplied as food grade) — emulsifier, stabiliser (E433)
Industries
- Personal Care & Cosmetics — lotions, creams, serums, bath products, hair care
- Home Care — cleaners, air fresheners, fragrance solubilisers
- Food & Beverage — emulsifier and stabiliser (food-grade only)
- Pharmaceuticals — solubiliser and emulsifier in oral, injectable and topical formulations
- Industrial & Institutional — emulsification of oils, waxes, and actives
Packaging & Storage
Available in 5 L, 25 L, 200 L drum and 1 000 L IBC formats.
Store in tightly sealed containers at 5–30 °C. Protect from freezing and direct sunlight.
Shelf life: 24 months from manufacture date under recommended storage conditions.
Safety & Regulatory
Not classified as hazardous under UK-CLP regulations.
Transport: Not regulated.
Use normal good hygiene and PPE practices (gloves and goggles when handling bulk).
Refer to the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for classification, handling, storage, PPE and disposal guidance.
Food, cosmetic, or pharma applications require compliance with relevant regulations and grade.
For technical support, bulk supply or private-label enquiries, please contact the Innovation Chem technical service team.