Tween 20 (Polysorbate 20), also known as polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate or Polysorbate 20, has a CAS number of 9005-64-5 and food additive number E432. The product appears as a light yellow to amber viscous liquid. It is one of the classic nonionic surfactant products primarily produced by Hai'an Guoli Chemical Co., Ltd.
As a nonionic surfactant, Tween 20 exhibits excellent emulsifying ability, stabilizing oil-in-water (O\/W) emulsion systems efficiently. It also possesses superior solubilizing effects, significantly improving the solubility of poorly soluble substances. Its chemical compatibility is outstanding, remaining stable in acidic, alkaline, and hard water media, and it offers high formulation flexibility, allowing synergistic combination with cationic, anionic, and other nonionic surfactants.
Due to its mild properties and multifunctionality, Tween 20 plays a key role in various industries. In the pharmaceutical field, it is used as a solubilizer to enhance the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. In the food industry, it serves as an emulsifier and aerating stabilizer to improve product texture. In biochemical experiments, it is widely used as a nonionic detergent in ELISA washing buffers and Western blot blocking buffers.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Tween 20 (Polysorbate 20) |
| Chemical Name | Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate (Polysorbate 20) |
| CAS Number | 9005-64-5 |
| Aliases | Polysorbate 20, Tween 20, PEG-20 sorbitan monolaurate, E432 |
| Product Type | Nonionic surfactant |
| Appearance | Light yellow to amber viscous liquid |
| Emulsion Type | O\/W (oil-in-water) |
| Ionicity | Nonionic |
| HLB Value | Not available (typical reference value ~16.7) |
| Cloud Point | Not available |
| Hydroxyl Value | Not available |
Cosmetics and Personal Care: As a mild nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer, it is suitable for creams, lotions, cleansers, shampoos, and body washes, helping to uniformly mix water and oil phases, improving product stability and skin feel. Recommended usage is typically 1% to 5% depending on the formulation.
Pharmaceutical Excipients: Used in oral liquids, injectables, and topical preparations to effectively enhance the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. The addition ratio should be determined based on drug characteristics and ensure compliance with pharmaceutical excipient standards.
Food Industry: Acts as an emulsifier and aerating stabilizer in ice cream, whipped cream, and pastries, improving texture, volume, and mouthfeel while preventing ice crystal formation and oil-water separation. Must comply with food additive standards (E432).
Industrial Cleaners: With excellent wetting, emulsifying, and detergency capabilities, it is widely used in hard surface cleaning and metal cleaning formulations to effectively remove grease and stubborn residues.
Textile Processing Aids: Used as a wetting agent, emulsifier, and antistatic agent to promote uniform penetration of dyes and finishing agents, improving fiber processing performance and hand feel.
Biochemical Experiments: As a nonionic detergent, it is commonly used in ELISA washing buffers (PBST) and Western blot blocking buffers (typically 0.05% to 0.1% concentration), effectively reducing background signals and improving detection sensitivity and reproducibility.
Hazard Identification: This product may cause mild skin irritation (H316), serious eye irritation (H319), prolonged or repeated exposure may cause skin allergy (H317), and is harmful to aquatic life (H402).
Operational Protection: Wear impermeable gloves, chemical safety goggles, and protective clothing during operation. Ensure adequate ventilation. Thoroughly wash hands and exposed skin with soap and water after handling. Avoid inhalation of vapors or spray. No eating, drinking, or smoking in the work area.
Storage Recommendations: Keep container tightly closed. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, recommended temperature 5°C to 30°C. Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames. Avoid direct sunlight and freezing.
Emergency Measures: In case of skin contact, immediately flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. For eye contact, rinse with water or saline for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention immediately. In case of spillage, collect with inert absorbent material (sand, diatomaceous earth) and dispose of properly, preventing entry into waterways or drains.