How to use Span S-80?

The usage method of Span S-80 varies by application field, and its core function is as a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsifier. It must first be dissolved in the oil phase, then mixed with the water phase for emulsification. It is recommended to heat it appropriately before use to reduce viscosity for easier handling.

Detailed Description

Span S-80 (Sorbitan monooleate) is an oil-soluble nonionic surfactant with an HLB value of only 4.3, insoluble in water but readily soluble in various oils and organic solvents. It must be added to the oil phase for thorough dissolution and dispersion, rather than being directly added to the water phase. The product appears as a viscous liquid at room temperature (kinematic viscosity of approximately 1000~2000 mm²/s at 25°C). It is recommended for use in environments above 10~12°C. At lower temperatures, it may solidify. Before use, it can be preheated in a warm water bath (not exceeding 40°C) to soften, then stirred evenly before use.

As a typical W/O emulsifier, Span S-80 is most suitable for preparing water-in-oil emulsion systems. During operation, first add the required amount of Span S-80 to the oil phase component and stir until completely dissolved and uniform; then slowly add the water phase to the oil phase while performing high-speed stirring or homogenization emulsification. To adjust the HLB value for a broader emulsification range, it is often compounded with high-HLB Tween series (such as Tween T-80, HLB=15.0), and different proportions can be used to formulate an emulsification system suitable for specific oil phases.

Recommended Usage Methods by Field

Cosmetic Creams and Lotions: Used as the primary or auxiliary emulsifier. First, add Span S-80 to the oil phase (such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, silicone oil, etc.) and heat to 70~75°C to dissolve; simultaneously heat the water phase to the same temperature, slowly add the water phase to the oil phase while stirring, homogenize for 2~5 minutes, then stir and cool. It is often compounded with Tween series for more stable emulsification.

Pesticide Emulsifiable Concentrates: Add Span S-80 according to the formulation amount (usually 3% to 8% of the total formulation) to the mixture of organic solvent and technical material, and stir until completely dissolved. This product allows the pesticide technical material to fully dissolve in the organic solvent and spontaneously form a stable emulsion when diluted in the field. It is recommended to use in combination with other nonionic or anionic emulsifiers to achieve optimal emulsification dispersion.

Food Emulsion Systems: As a food additive E494, it is uniformly mixed into the oil phase in products such as baking fats and non-dairy creamers. The recommended usage amount should comply with the provisions of GB 2760 Food Additive Use Standard. After heating and melting, mix evenly with other oil components, then proceed with subsequent processing.

Industrial Lubricating Oils and Rust Preventive Oils: Add Span S-80 directly to the base oil, stir and heat to 40~50°C for thorough dissolution and dispersion. The typical addition amount is 1% to 5% of the total oil quantity. It improves the compatibility of additives with the base oil and maintains the uniformity and stability of the oil.

Textile Fiber Oils: As a smoothing agent and antistatic component, mix Span S-80 with other oil agent components, heat and stir evenly before use. It effectively reduces friction between fibers and prevents static buildup.

Plastic Processing Lubricants: Used as an internal lubricant, it can be directly mixed with resin pellets for processing or added during the mixing stage. The typical addition amount is 0.5% to 2% of the resin weight, improving mold release and surface gloss of the product.

Technical Parameters

Application Recommendations

• HLB Value Adjustment: Span S-80 (HLB 4.3) is often compounded with Tween T-80 (HLB 15.0) in appropriate proportions to obtain a composite emulsification system with any HLB value in the range of 4.3 to 15.0, meeting the HLB requirements of different oil phases.
• Key Emulsification Process: The temperatures of the oil phase and water phase should be consistent (usually 65~75°C). Using a homogenizer or high-shear emulsifier provides better results; the homogenization speed and time depend on the system volume.
• Dosage Reference: In cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, it is typically 1% to 5% of the total formulation; in pesticide formulations, 3% to 8%; in industrial lubricating oils, 1% to 5%; in plastics, 0.5% to 2%. Specific dosages should be determined through experiments based on the actual formulation.
• Preheating Treatment: In low-temperature environments or before use in winter, it is recommended to preheat the product drum in a 25~35°C warm water bath to reduce viscosity, facilitating accurate weighing and dispersion operations.

Precautions

• Wear protective gloves, goggles, and protective clothing during operation, and avoid direct contact with skin and eyes (H315: Causes skin irritation; H319: Causes serious eye irritation).
• Ensure good ventilation in the workplace to avoid inhaling vapors or mists (H335: May cause respiratory irritation).
• The product contains ester bonds and has poor alkali resistance; avoid compounding with strong alkalis to prevent hydrolysis and loss of efficacy.
• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers, and keep away from high temperatures and open flames (Flash point >150°C, but safety must still be observed).
• Storage temperature is recommended to be below 40°C; keep containers tightly sealed and store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
• Use opened products promptly; seal immediately after use to prevent moisture absorption and contamination.