Span S-85 (sorbitan trioleate) is a non-ionic surfactant. According to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), this product is not classified as a hazardous chemical, with no hazard pictograms, signal words, or hazard statements (H-phrases). Under recommended usage conditions, operating according to regulations will not cause significant acute health hazards, making it generally safe.
Regarding human health effects, prolonged or repeated skin contact may cause mild skin dryness, and it may cause mild eye irritation. Therefore, it is recommended to follow precautionary statement P280, i.e., wear protective gloves, protective eyewear, and face protection. Operations should be conducted in well-ventilated areas, and hands and exposed skin should be thoroughly washed after handling. If eye contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; if skin contact occurs, wash thoroughly with plenty of water and soap.
In terms of ecological impact, Span S-85 has a water hazard class of WGK 1 (German water hazard classification), meaning it is slightly hazardous to water bodies. The product must not be discharged undiluted or untreated directly into water bodies or the environment. Waste disposal should be carried out in accordance with local, regional, and national environmental regulations. Empty containers may contain product residues and must be properly disposed of, not discarded arbitrarily.
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | Non-hazardous chemical |
| Hazard Pictograms | None |
| Signal Word | None |
| Hazard Statements | None |
| Skin Contact Effects | May cause mild skin dryness (prolonged/repeated contact) |
| Eye Contact Effects | Mild irritation |
| Acute Health Hazards | No significant acute hazards under normal use |
| Water Hazard Class | WGK 1 (slightly hazardous to water bodies) |
| Suitable Extinguishing Media | Carbon dioxide, dry powder, foam extinguishing agents |
Span S-85 is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceutical preparations, food industry, textiles, metalworking, petroleum extraction, coatings and inks, and pesticide formulations. In all these applications, as long as recommended dosages and standard operating procedures are followed, the product is safe for humans. As a W/O emulsifier, its ultra-low HLB value and strong lipophilicity make it excellent in water-in-oil systems.