Question

What are the main characteristics of Tween T-80?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 吐温T-80

Tween T-80 is a classic nonionic O/W emulsifier with an HLB value as high as 15. It is characterized by efficient emulsification and solubilization, broad-spectrum chemical compatibility, and mild low toxicity, and is widely used in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and industrial fields.

Detailed Description

Tween T-80 (chemical name: Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, CAS number: 9005-65-6) is a light yellow to amber liquid nonionic surfactant provided by Guoli Chemical. Its HLB value is as high as 15, making it a hydrophilic emulsifier particularly suitable for preparing oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. As a versatile surfactant, it can significantly reduce the oil-water interfacial tension, form a stable and fine emulsion system, and has excellent solubilization ability for poorly soluble substances. It is an indispensable functional additive in formulation development.

This product has four core performance advantages: First, efficient emulsification and solubilization, capable of stabilizing emulsions and solubilizing hydrophobic components; Second, excellent dispersion and wetting, allowing rapid adsorption at solid/liquid interfaces and preventing powder agglomeration; Third, broad-spectrum chemical compatibility, remaining stable under acidic, alkaline, and hard water conditions, and compatible with both ionic and nonionic additives; Fourth, mild low toxicity, meeting green chemistry application requirements in multiple fields such as pharmaceuticals and food, with low toxicity to aquatic organisms and biodegradability.

It is worth noting that Tween T-80 has relatively poor penetrating power and alkali resistance. Its foaming tendency is low foam type, and it is hygroscopic. It may undergo hydrolysis under strong acid or strong base conditions. Therefore, these characteristics should be fully considered in formulation design to maximize its emulsification and solubilization functions.

Technical Parameters

Parameter ItemTechnical Indicator
Product NameTween T-80 (Polysorbate 80)
CAS Number9005-65-6
AppearanceLight yellow to amber liquid
Ion TypeNonionic
HLB Value15
Active Content≥97%
pH Value (1% Aqueous Solution)5.0-7.0
Cloud Point (1% Aqueous Solution)Approx. 93°C
Density1.06~1.10 g/cm³
Melting PointLiquid (at room temperature)
Flash Point>149°C
Surface Tension (0.1% Aqueous Solution)42.5 mN/m
Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC)1.3×10⁻⁵ mol/L
Hydroxyl Value65~80 mgKOH/g
Saponification Value45~55 mgKOH/g
Acid Value≤2.0 mgKOH/g
Moisture Content≤3.0%
Viscosity (25°C)Approx. 600 mPa·s
SolubilityEasily soluble in water, benzene, and organic solvents
Foam CharacteristicLow foam
Heavy Metal Content≤10 ppm
Arsenic Content≤2 ppm
Packaging Specification50kg/200kg plastic drum

Application Suggestions

With its high HLB value and excellent solubilization ability, Tween T-80 plays a key role in multiple industries:

  • Pharmaceutical Preparations: Used as an efficient solubilizer for poorly soluble drugs and an emulsifier for injectable/oral emulsions, significantly improving the bioavailability of active ingredients. It is an important choice for injection-grade excipients.
  • Food Industry: Used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in ice cream, baking fats, beverages, and other products to improve taste and texture and extend shelf life.
  • Cosmetics and Personal Care: Used as an emulsifier and solubilizer in creams, lotions, makeup removers, and perfumes, providing a refreshing feel and helping to uniformly disperse active ingredients and fragrances.
  • Pesticide Formulations: Used for emulsification and spreading of emulsifiable concentrates and oil-in-water emulsions, enhancing the wetting and spreading ability of the liquid on plant leaf surfaces and improving efficacy.
  • Coatings and Inks: Used as a pigment dispersant and emulsion polymerization emulsifier to prevent flocculation and ensure the stability of the emulsion system.
  • Petroleum and Lubrication: Used as an emulsifier and lubricating component in drilling fluids and metalworking fluids to maintain system stability under extreme conditions.

Precautions

  • The product is hygroscopic. After opening, it should be resealed immediately and stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. The recommended storage temperature is 10-30°C, avoiding freezing.
  • It may undergo hydrolysis under strong acid or strong base conditions. The pH environment of the formulation should be evaluated during formulation design.
  • Penetrating power is poor. If the formulation requires high wetting and penetration performance, it is recommended to combine with other surfactants with complementary properties.
  • It is recommended to wear chemical protective gloves and goggles during operation to avoid direct contact with eyes and skin.
  • The product is low foam type and is not suitable for cleaning formulations requiring rich foam.
  • Direct discharge of undiluted or untreated product into the environment is prohibited. Large spills into water bodies may form surface films affecting oxygen exchange.