Tween T-60 is a non-hazardous substance with very low toxicity and is non-flammable. However, protective measures, proper storage, and emergency handling procedures are still necessary during operation to ensure safety and product quality.
Detailed Description
Tween T-60 (Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate) is a non-ionic surfactant with high safety. According to GHS classification criteria, this product is not classified as a hazardous chemical. Its acute oral toxicity is very low (rat oral LD50 > 5000 mg/kg), and its flash point is > 149 °C. Under normal use and storage conditions, there is no significant risk of combustion or explosion. However, direct contact with concentrated product may cause mild, temporary irritation to the skin or eyes, so basic protective measures should be taken during industrial operations.
In practical use, Tween T-60 often needs to be heated and melted before feeding. It is recommended to preheat the product to 40–60 °C to make it a flowable liquid. Avoid prolonged heating at high temperatures (above 150 °C) to prevent degradation of the polyoxyethylene chain, which can cause color darkening and performance decline. When handling hot molten product, wear protective gloves made of butyl rubber or neoprene, as well as chemical safety goggles, to prevent burns and splashes into the eyes.
Additionally, Tween T-60 is hygroscopic. After opening, use it promptly and reseal the packaging. Do not return unused product to the original container to avoid contamination. When compounding with other surfactants, its excellent compatibility allows it to mix well with anionic, cationic, and non-ionic surfactants. However, avoid storing or directly mixing it with strong oxidizers, strong acids, or strong bases.
Technical Parameters
| Item | Parameter |
|---|
| Product Type | Non-ionic surfactant (polyol type) |
| Chemical Name | Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate |
| CAS Number | 9005-67-8 |
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber oily liquid or paste |
| Acute Oral Toxicity | LD50 > 5000 mg/kg (rat) |
| Flash Point | > 149 °C (closed cup method) |
| Hazard Classification | Non-hazardous substance |
| Recommended Storage Temperature | 5 °C to 35 °C |
| Shelf Life | Two years from manufacturing date (under normal temperature and sealed conditions) |
| Recommended Preheating Temperature | 40–60 °C |
Application Recommendations
- Feeding Method: For paste products, it is recommended to first dissolve by heating in the aqueous or oil phase before feeding to ensure uniform dispersion. When used as an O/W emulsifier, the recommended dosage is generally 1%–5% of the total formulation. The specific dosage should be determined experimentally based on the oil phase ratio and emulsification system requirements.
- Compounding Recommendations: When used in combination with Span series (e.g., Span S-60), a wider range of HLB values can be obtained, improving emulsion stability. In applications with high safety requirements, such as food and cosmetics, ensure that all compounding raw materials comply with relevant regulations and standards.
- Applicable Systems: It has high tolerance to acids, alkalis, and hard water, maintaining functional stability over a wide pH range, making it suitable for complex formulation systems.
Precautions
- Personal Protection: Wear chemical safety goggles and protective gloves (butyl rubber or neoprene) during operation. After handling, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Storage Requirements: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse. Keep the container sealed, away from heat sources and open flames. Avoid extreme temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles. Stainless steel, FRP, or carbon steel with epoxy-phenolic lining is recommended. Avoid prolonged contact with copper or copper alloys.
- Spill Handling: For small spills, collect with inert absorbent materials (e.g., vermiculite, dry sand). For large spills, construct dikes to contain the spread. The spill area may be slippery; immediately set up warning signs. Do not discharge spilled material into surface water or sewage systems.
- Emergency Measures: In case of skin contact, immediately rinse with plenty of water and soap for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, rinse thoroughly with clean water or saline for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If ingested, rinse mouth with water; no urgent treatment is usually required, but consult a doctor if discomfort occurs.
- Fire Response: The product itself does not support combustion. However, if involved in a fire, it may produce irritating fumes such as carbon monoxide. Firefighters must wear self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. After extinguishing, collect contaminated firefighting water to avoid direct discharge into the environment.
