Span S-85 (Sorbitan Trioleate) is an ultra-lipophilic non-ionic surfactant with an HLB value of only 1.8. It is an amber to brownish-yellow viscous oily liquid at room temperature. Due to its strong lipophilic characteristics, it is mainly used to prepare water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion systems. When in use, it is recommended to add Span S-85 to the oil phase, heat to 40~60°C with stirring until completely dissolved and dispersed, and then mix with the water phase for emulsification. For high-viscosity formulations, the heating temperature can be appropriately increased, but avoid exceeding 150°C to prevent decomposition.
In actual operation, it is recommended to use a homogenization emulsification process: first heat the oil phase (containing Span S-85) and the water phase to the same temperature (usually 70~80°C), then slowly add the water phase to the oil phase under stirring, homogenize at high speed (3000~5000 rpm, 3~5 minutes), and then cool to obtain a stable W/O emulsion. If the formulation uses a combination of Span series and Tween series, a wider HLB value adjustment range and better emulsification stability can be obtained.
Regarding the recommended dosage, the Guoli Chemical product database does not provide fixed recommended dosages for various application fields. According to common industry practices, the typical usage in cosmetic creams is 1%~3%, in metalworking emulsified oils is 3%~8%, in pesticide emulsifiable concentrates is 2%~6%, and in coating dispersion is 0.5%~2% of the total formula. However, the optimal dosage is affected by multiple factors such as the type of oil phase, water phase ratio, system viscosity, and storage conditions. It is recommended to determine the specific dosage through gradient experiments.
| Item | Parameter |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Span S-85 (Sorbitan Trioleate) |
| CAS Number | 26266-58-0 |
| Ionic Type | Non-ionic Surfactant |
| HLB Value | 1.8 |
| Appearance | Amber to Brownish-yellow Viscous Oily Liquid |
| Active Content | ≥98% |
| Solubility | Easily soluble in oil, dispersible in water |
| Density (25°C) | 0.95-1.00 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point (Open Cup) | >200°C |
| Acid Value | ≤15 mgKOH/g |
| Saponification Value | 165~185 mgKOH/g |
| Hydroxyl Value | 50~80 mgKOH/g |
| Moisture Content | ≤1.5% |
Cosmetic Creams/Emulsions: As a primary or auxiliary emulsifier, first dissolve Span S-85 in the oil phase (mineral oil, silicone oil, esters, etc.), heat to 70~75°C, and mix with the water phase at the same temperature using homogenization. To ensure a refreshing skin feel, it is recommended to use it in combination with a small amount of hydrophilic emulsifier.
Metalworking Cutting Fluids: When preparing emulsified cutting fluids, add Span S-85 to the base oil and heat to dissolve, then mix with the water phase containing rust inhibitors and extreme pressure additives to form a stable water-in-oil emulsification system, providing both lubrication and cooling functions.
Pesticide Emulsifiable Concentrates (EC): As an emulsifier component, used in combination with anionic emulsifiers (such as Nongru 500#), it helps improve the compatibility of the active ingredient in organic solvents and ensures rapid self-emulsification when the formulation is added to water.
Coating/Ink Dispersion: Add during the grinding stage to wet the pigment surface and shorten dispersion time. The recommended dosage is 2%~5% of the pigment weight.
Textile Oils: Directly add to synthetic fiber finishing oil formulations to reduce fiber friction coefficient, impart smoothness and bundling properties, and reduce breakage during spinning.