Question

How to store Span S-60? What is its shelf life?

Answer
2026-06-06 官方文档 司盘S-60

Span S-60 should be stored sealed in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. The recommended temperature is below 35°C and keep away from light; the shelf life is typically 12 to 24 months.

Detailed Description

Span S-60 (Sorbitan monostearate) is a chemically stable nonionic surfactant. Proper storage is crucial for maintaining its core properties such as emulsification and dispersion. Its waxy solid physical form makes it somewhat sensitive to temperature, humidity, and light. Improper storage may lead to caking, color deepening, or increased acid value, thereby affecting the formulation performance.

According to the safety data sheet (SDS) provided by Guoli Chemical, the product should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, and the container must be kept tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination. The original packaging is usually a woven bag or kraft paper bag lined with polyethylene. If not used up after opening, the inner bag mouth should be tightly tied. The product should be kept away from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers and should comply with the stacking layer limits on the packaging to prevent damage to the bottom packages due to pressure.

Technical Parameters

Storage Condition ItemSpecific Requirement
Storage EnvironmentCool, dry, well-ventilated
Suitable TemperatureBelow 35°C (may solidify at low temperatures, allow to return to room temperature before use)
Light RequirementAvoid direct sunlight
Package SealingKeep container tightly sealed; tie inner bag mouth after opening
Substances to AvoidStrong oxidizers (e.g., high-concentration peroxides, hypochlorites)
Shelf LifeNo accurate data in database

Application Recommendations

In applications with high safety requirements such as cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals, it is recommended to follow the strict "first in, first out" inventory management principle. For products stored long-term, sample and test key indicators before use, such as acid value (specification limit ≤10 mgKOH/g), saponification value (145~160 mgKOH/g), and hydroxyl value (230~270 mgKOH/g). Ensure these parameters are still within the acceptable range before using in large-scale production to guarantee the stability of the final product quality.

Precautions

  • Temperature fluctuation: The melting point of the product is 52~57°C. The storage temperature should not approach this range and must not exceed the melting point, otherwise the product will melt and cake, making it difficult to weigh and use.
  • Shelf life reference: Although the Guoli Chemical product database does not have accurate shelf life data for this product, according to industry common standards, under recommended storage conditions, the shelf life of Span S-60 is typically 12 to 24 months. It is recommended to refer to the batch inspection report and label on the product packaging.
  • Check before use: If the product shows significant discoloration, odor, or caking that cannot be dispersed, discontinue use even if the expiry date has not been reached.