Tween T-20 (Polysorbate 20) is a nonionic surfactant with a high HLB value (16.7). It is readily soluble in water and various organic solvents and usually does not require special pretreatment before use. When used as an O/W emulsifier, it is recommended to first add it to the aqueous phase and stir until completely dissolved, then slowly add the oil phase for emulsification to obtain a more delicate and stable emulsion. If used as a solubilizer, pre-mix Tween T-20 evenly with the poorly soluble substance (such as fragrance, essential oil, or fat-soluble drug), then slowly add water for dilution, avoiding direct large-scale dilution that may cause precipitation.
This product is chemically stable and performs well in weak acid, weak alkali, and hard water media. However, it should be avoided under strong acid, strong alkali, or prolonged high-temperature conditions to prevent hydrolysis. Due to its hygroscopic nature, it should be sealed promptly after opening and stored in a cool, dry place at 5°C to 30°C. During handling, the product appears as a light yellow to amber viscous liquid (viscosity approximately 400 mPa·s). It may thicken at low temperatures; warming to room temperature restores normal fluidity without the need for special stirring equipment.
| Parameter Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Light yellow to amber viscous liquid |
| Ionic Type | Nonionic |
| HLB Value | 16.7 |
| Active Content | ≥97% |
| pH of 1% Aqueous Solution | 5.0~7.0 |
| Cloud Point (°C) | 76~78 |
| Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) | 0.008% (w/v) |
| Hydroxyl Value (mg KOH/g) | 95~110 |
| Saponification Value (mg KOH/g) | 40~50 |
| Acid Value (mg KOH/g) | ≤2 |
| Moisture Content (%) | ≤3.0 |
| Density (g/cm³, 25°C) | ~1.10 |
| Flash Point (°C) | >110 |
| Surface Tension (mN/m) | 30~32 |
| Heavy Metals (ppm) | ≤10 |
| Arsenic (ppm) | ≤2 |
The following are commonly used reference dosages for Tween T-20 in different application fields (Note: These are general industry recommendations; specific amounts should be determined through experiments based on the actual formulation):
| Application Field | Functional Role | Recommended Dosage (w/w) |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic Creams/Lotions | O/W Emulsifier | 1.0%~5.0% |
| Facial Cleansers/Makeup Removers | Solubilizer, Mild Cleanser | 2.0%~10.0% |
| Fragrance/Essential Oil Solubilization | Solubilizer | 3 to 5 times the amount of fragrance (approximately 0.5%~5% in the system) |
| Oral Liquids/Injections | Drug Solubilizer | 0.1%~2.0% (based on total formulation) |
| Food Emulsification (e.g., Ice Cream) | Emulsifying Stabilizer | 0.1%~0.5% |
| Industrial/Household Cleaners | Wetting Agent, Emulsifying Detergent | 1.0%~5.0% |
| Textile Auxiliaries | Wetting Agent, Antistatic Agent | 0.5%~2.0% (based on working solution) |
| Pesticide Emulsifiable Concentrates/Emulsions | Emulsifier | 2.0%~8.0% (based on total formulation) |
| Waterborne Coatings/Inks | Pigment Wetting Dispersant | 0.5%~2.0% of pigment amount |
| ELISA Wash Buffer (PBST) | Nonionic Detergent | 0.05%~0.1% (i.e., 500~1000 ppm) |
| Western Blot Blocking Buffer | Background Signal Reduction | 0.05%~0.2% |