Question

What are the precautions for using Tween T-20 laurate?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 吐温T-20月桂酸

Precautions for using Tween T-20 laurate: The core is to ensure personal protection, standardized storage, avoidance of environmental pollution, and strict adherence to emergency procedures.

Detailed explanation

Tween T-20 laurate (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, CAS No.: 9005-64-5) is a relatively mild non-ionic surfactant, but necessary safety operating procedures must still be followed during use. This product may cause mild skin irritation (H316) and serious eye irritation (H319). Long-term or repeated exposure can cause skin sensitization (H317) and is harmful to aquatic life (H402). Therefore, it is essential to understand the product's hazard characteristics and be fully prepared for protection before operation.

According to the Safety Data Sheet of Guoli Chemical, when handling Tween T-20, wear impermeable gloves, chemical safety goggles, and face shields, and wear protective clothing. Avoid inhalation of vapors or sprays, and ensure good ventilation in the workplace. Contaminated work clothing must not be removed from the work site and must be cleaned before reuse. After work, thoroughly wash hands and exposed skin with soap and water. Eating, drinking, or smoking is strictly prohibited in the work area. Operators should receive standardized safety training.

This product is chemically stable but may undergo hydrolysis under strong acids, strong bases, and high temperatures. Therefore, it should be avoided from contact with incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers and strong acids. Tween T-20 is flammable with a flash point above 110°C. Keep away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames during storage and use. Recommended storage temperature is 5°C to 30°C, avoiding freezing or prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Due to its hygroscopic nature, containers must be kept tightly closed.

Technical parameters

ParameterData
Product formLight yellow to amber viscous liquid
Ionic typeNon-ionic surfactant
HLB value16.7
Cloud point (1% aqueous solution)76~78°C
pH of 1% aqueous solution5.0~7.0
Flash point>110°C
DensityApproximately 1.10 g/cm³
HygroscopicityHygroscopic
Chemical stabilityStable, may hydrolyze under strong acids, strong bases, and high temperatures
SolubilityEasily soluble in water, methanol, ethanol
Flammability characteristicsFlammable

Data source: Guoli Chemical Product Database

Application suggestions

When used in cosmetic formulations, it is recommended to add at low temperature or room temperature to avoid prolonged high-temperature heating that may cause hydrolysis and failure. In the food industry, strictly comply with the usage scope and maximum dosage specified in GB 2760. In biochemical experiments, when used as a washing solution for ELISA or Western blot, the common concentration is 0.05% to 0.1% (v/v). In pesticide or industrial cleaning formulations, it can be compounded with non-ionic and anionic surfactants, but attention should be paid to compatibility with strong acid and strong base systems.

Precautions

  • Emergency treatment: In case of skin contact, immediately rinse with plenty of running water for at least 15 minutes; if irritation persists, seek medical attention immediately. For eye contact, rinse carefully for at least 15 minutes; if eye irritation does not subside, seek medical attention. If ingested, rinse mouth with water, do not induce vomiting, and seek medical attention immediately.
  • Spill disposal: For small spills, absorb with inert absorbent material (sand, diatomaceous earth) and collect in a sealed container. For large spills, contain to prevent entry into drains or water bodies, cover with foam to suppress vapors, and dispose of by qualified units.
  • Firefighting measures: Suitable extinguishing media include dry powder, carbon dioxide, alcohol-resistant foam, and water mist. Avoid using direct water jets to prevent splashing and spread. Firefighters must wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.
  • Environmental protection: Do not discharge untreated materials directly into drains, surface water, or soil. Waste should be disposed of by qualified agencies.
  • Packaging specification: Guoli Chemical provides 50kg/200kg plastic drum packaging. After opening, use promptly and seal for storage.