Span S-20 coconut fatty acid (CAS: 1338-39-2) is a variant of the sorbitan monolaurate series that employs a coconut fatty acid ester structure. It is also known under names such as Span 20, sorbitan monolaurate, etc. It is made from renewable resources and appears as an amber viscous liquid at room temperature, offering excellent performance as a non-ionic surfactant.
The core function of this product is its outstanding water-in-oil (W/O) emulsifying capability, enabling the formulation to construct a fine, uniform microstructure that allows the oil phase to stably encapsulate the water phase. At the same time, it possesses excellent dispersing and wetting properties, effectively reducing interfacial tension and promoting the uniform dispersion of pigments, fillers, and other functional components within the system. In terms of compatibility, Span S-20 coconut fatty acid exhibits high stability, being able to tolerate high concentrations of electrolytes, acidic/alkaline environments, and hard water conditions, thus providing great flexibility in formulation design.
Based on the coconut fatty acid ester structure, this product combines good emulsification efficiency and mildness to the skin. Its acute oral toxicity is classified as practically non-toxic (rat LD50 > 5 g/kg), and the results for skin irritation, eye irritation, and skin sensitization are all negative, making it widely used in personal care products with well-verified safety.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Span S-20 coconut fatty acid |
| Chemical Name | Sorbitan coconut fatty acid ester (sorbitan monolaurate) |
| CAS Number | 1338-39-2 |
| Product Type | Non-ionic surfactant |
| Emulsion Type | W/O (water-in-oil) |
| Typical Appearance | Amber viscous liquid |
| Raw Material Source | Renewable resources (coconut fatty acid ester structure) |
| HLB Value | Not available |
| Cloud Point | Not available |
| Hydroxyl Value | Not available |
| Density | Not available |
| Flash Point | Non-flammable (not classified as dangerous goods) |
| Hazard Classification | Non-hazardous chemical |
| Acute Oral Toxicity (Rat) | LD50 > 5 g/kg (practically non-toxic) |
| Skin Irritation (Rabbit) | PII = 0, non-irritating |
| Eye Irritation (Rabbit) | Non-irritating |
| Skin Sensitization | No sensitization observed |
With its multi-functional properties, Span S-20 coconut fatty acid plays a key role in several industries:
Personal Care & Cosmetics: As a primary emulsifier and dispersant in skin creams, lotions, sunscreens, and color cosmetics, it helps build stable water-in-oil systems, imparting a light texture and good spreadability. In hair care products, it can solubilize silicone oils and fatty components, improving wet combing and smoothness; in bath products, it aids in emulsifying emollient oils and solubilizing fragrances.
Agrochemicals: Used as an emulsifier for pesticides, emulsifying the active ingredient to form stable emulsions, enhancing the wetting and spreading ability of the spray liquid on crop surfaces, thus improving efficacy.
Industrial Applications: Provides emulsifying, lubricating, and dispersing properties in metalworking fluids (cutting fluids, grinding fluids); acts as a wetting and dispersing aid in paints and ink systems to prevent pigment flocculation and floating; penetrates and solubilizes heavy oil stains in industrial cleaners.
Textile Industry: Used as an emulsifying assistant in textile finishing agents, promoting uniform adsorption on fiber surfaces and imparting a smooth, soft hand feel to fabrics.
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse. Recommended temperature range: 5–40°C. Keep containers tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption or contamination. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles which may affect quality. Keep away from heat sources and avoid storage with strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, or other incompatible substances.
Handling Protection: Although this product is low-toxicity and non-irritating, it is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles during handling, wash hands thoroughly after use, and maintain good ventilation in the workplace. If aerosols are generated, use local exhaust ventilation or respiratory protection.
Disposal: Do not discharge the product directly into the environment. Dispose of it in accordance with local, national, and international waste management regulations, through licensed chemical waste treatment facilities via incineration or biological treatment.