Span S-20 (sorbitan monolaurate, CAS: 1338-39-2) is a non-ionic surfactant derived from renewable resources. Its molecular structure endows it with excellent water-in-oil (W/O) emulsifying capability, enabling the formation of fine, uniform microemulsion structures in formulations. At the same time, this product exhibits outstanding dispersing and wetting properties, effectively reducing interfacial tension and promoting uniform dispersion of pigments, fillers, and other functional ingredients in the system. Its superior compatibility stability allows it to maintain functional stability under high electrolyte concentrations, acidic and alkaline environments, and hard water conditions, providing great flexibility in formulation design.
Due to the molecular structure characteristics of coconut oil esters, this product combines good emulsifying efficiency with skin mildness. Its acute oral toxicity is classified as practically non-toxic (rat LD50 > 5 g/kg), and skin irritation, eye irritation, and sensitization test results were all negative, making it widely recognized in the personal care field.
1. Personal Care and Cosmetics Industry: Used as a primary emulsifier and dispersant for building W/O systems in skin creams, lotions, sunscreens, and color cosmetics, effectively dispersing inorganic UV filters and pigments; in hair shampoos and conditioners, solubilizes silicones and oils to improve wet combing and smoothness; in bath products, assists in emulsifying emollients and solubilizing fragrances, achieving a balance between gentle cleansing and moisturizing.
2. Agrochemical Industry: As a pesticide emulsifier, it emulsifies the active ingredient to form a stable emulsion, enhancing the wetting and spreading of the spray on crop surfaces, thereby improving efficacy.
3. Textile Industry: Used as a textile finishing agent to promote uniform adsorption of finishing auxiliaries on fiber surfaces, imparting a smooth, soft hand feel to fabrics.
4. Metalworking Industry: In cutting fluid and grinding fluid formulations, it provides emulsifying, lubricating, and dispersing properties, serving as a key functional component of metalworking fluids.
5. Coatings and Inks Industry: As a wetting and dispersing additive, it wets and disperses pigment particles, preventing flocculation and floating, thereby improving storage stability and color strength.
6. Industrial Cleaning Industry: It penetrates and solubilizes heavy oil stains, significantly improving cleaning efficiency on metal parts and equipment surfaces.