Question

How should Span S-80 be stored? What is its shelf life?

Answer
2026-06-06 官方文档 司盘S-80

Span S-80 is recommended to be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, sealed, with temperature below 40°C. Under unopened conditions, the general shelf life is 24 months.

Detailed Explanation

Span S-80 (Sorbitan monooleate) is a chemically stable nonionic surfactant that is not prone to hydrolysis or oxidative degradation under normal storage conditions. To ensure the product quality remains optimal, controlling the storage environment is crucial. The product should be stored in a dedicated chemical storage area that is cool, dry, and well-ventilated. The container must be kept tightly sealed to prevent moisture and impurities from entering.

Regarding the shelf life, according to general standards for nonionic surfactants in the chemical industry, Span S-80, under original unopened packaging and compliant storage conditions, typically has a shelf life of 24 months (2 years). However, the specific shelf life of the product should be based on the expiration date indicated on the product packaging or the Certificate of Analysis (COA). Each batch of products from Guoli Chemical is accompanied by a corresponding quality inspection report.

It should be noted that even if the product is within its shelf life, improper storage (such as prolonged exposure to high temperature, high humidity, or loose sealing) may lead to color deepening, viscosity changes, or decreased emulsifying performance. Therefore, it is recommended to follow the "first-in, first-out" principle and use the product as soon as possible within the shelf life.

Key Storage Conditions

Storage FactorSpecific Requirement
Storage TemperatureBelow 40°C recommended, avoid high temperature causing product degradation or color deepening
Environment RequirementCool, dry, well-ventilated area
Container ConditionKeep sealed to prevent moisture absorption and ingress of foreign matter
After OpeningRe-seal opened containers tightly and store upright to prevent leakage
Substances to AvoidAvoid contact with incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers
Fire Source ManagementKeep away from heat, sparks, and open flame (flash point >149°C)
Reference Shelf LifeTypically 24 months under unopened conditions, refer to product COA

Application Suggestions

For optimal performance, please pay attention to the following scenarios:

  • Pre-use Inspection: Observe the product appearance before use. Normal appearance is an amber to brown viscous liquid. If obvious stratification, turbidity, or off-odor is detected, it is recommended to stop using even if within the shelf life.
  • Batch Withdrawal: Use dry and clean tools to take the material, avoiding introducing moisture or impurities into the original container. Seal promptly after taking the material.
  • Winter Storage: At low temperatures, the product viscosity will significantly increase, which is a normal physical phenomenon. Before use, the container can be warmed in an environment of 15-30°C; do not use open flame to heat directly.

Precautions

  • The product flash point is above 149°C (closed cup), but it should still be kept away from fire and high-temperature sources.
  • Waste product and contaminated packaging should be disposed of in accordance with local regulations and requirements; do not drain into sewers or mix with household waste.
  • The above shelf life information is based on general industry standards. Guoli Chemical reserves the final interpretation right for this parameter not marked in this database. Please refer to the COA accompanying the shipment.