Question

In which industries and processes is Span S-80 mainly applied?

Answer
2026-05-27 官方文档 司盘S-80

Span S-80 is mainly used in 7 major industries, primarily as a W/O emulsifier, dispersant, and lubricant additive.

Detailed Description

Span S-80 (Sorbitan monooleate, CAS 1338-43-8) is a classic non-ionic surfactant with an HLB value of approximately 4.3, belonging to low hydrophilic-lipophilic balance emulsifiers. With its excellent oil phase affinity and chemical stability, it can achieve efficient water-in-oil (W/O) emulsification at low addition levels, maintaining stable performance under acid, alkali, and hard water conditions.

The product possesses multiple functions such as emulsifying, dispersing, wetting, and lubricating, with good compatibility with various oils, waxes, and organic solvents. It can be flexibly applied in multiple formulation systems, making it an indispensable functional additive in many industrial fields.

Specific Applications in Various Industries

IndustryProcess/ApplicationFunction/Role
Cosmetics & Personal CareSkin creams, sunscreens, lotions, color cosmeticsPrimary or secondary W/O emulsifier, providing spreadability and moisturizing feel
Food IndustryBaking fats, creamers, candies, chocolateEmulsifier (E494), improving oil-water dispersion and texture stability
PharmaceuticalsOintment bases, suppositories, creamsPharmaceutical excipient, promoting uniform drug distribution and transdermal absorption
AgrochemicalsEmulsifiable concentrates (EC), emulsifiable concentratesEfficient emulsifying dispersant, spontaneously forming stable emulsion upon dilution
Industrial LubricantsRust preventive oils, cutting fluids, hydraulic fluidsImproving compatibility between additives and base oil, enhancing rust prevention and lubrication performance
Textile IndustryFiber oils, spinning finishesSmoothing agent and antistatic component, reducing fiber friction
Plastics & PolymersPlastic processing, films, injection molded partsInternal lubricant and antistatic agent, improving mold release and surface gloss

Precautions

  • Flash point >149°C (closed cup), but still keep away from high temperature and open flames
  • Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and ensure adequate ventilation during operation
  • Causes skin and eye irritation (H315/H319), avoid direct contact
  • Recommended storage temperature below 40°C, keep container tightly closed, avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents