What are the main components of Tween T-85?

The main component of Tween T-85 is polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (also known as polysorbate 85), with an effective content of ≥97%. It is a nonionic surfactant produced by the reaction of sorbitol, ethylene oxide, and oleic acid.

Detailed Description

The core chemical composition of Tween T-85 is polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85), with CAS number 9005-70-3, average molecular formula C₁₀₀H₁₈₈O₂₈, and molecular weight of approximately 1900. This product belongs to the polyoxyethylene ether derivatives of sorbitan fatty acid esters and is an important variety among the Tween series of nonionic surfactants. Data sourced from the Guoli Chemical product database.

From the molecular structure, Tween T-85 consists of three core segments: first, sorbitan (anhydrosorbitol) as the central backbone; second, three oleic acid (C18 unsaturated fatty acid) hydrophobic chains esterified with sorbitan, forming the lipophilic group; third, approximately 20 ethylene oxide units polymerized to form a polyoxyethylene hydrophilic chain, imparting water dispersibility and emulsifying ability. The trioleate structure makes its lipophilicity significantly stronger than that of monoester-type Tween products (such as Tween T-80), with an HLB value of 11, readily soluble in oils and organic solvents, and dispersible in water.

Tween T-85 from Guoli Chemical appears as a light yellow to amber viscous liquid, with an active ingredient content of ≥97%, free alcohol ≤1%, moisture ≤3.0%, acid value ≤2 mg KOH/g, saponification value 45~55 mg KOH/g, and hydroxyl value 65~85 mg KOH/g. The heavy metal content is ≤10 mg/kg (as Pb), and arsenic content is ≤2 mg/kg, meeting the relevant quality requirements for food additive polysorbate 85.

Technical Parameters

Application Suggestions

Based on its trioleate structure and HLB value of 11, Tween T-85 is particularly suitable for emulsification and dispersion in oil-soluble systems:

• Agrochemical formulations: As an emulsifier and wetting agent for oil-soluble pesticides, dispersing the active ingredient uniformly in water to form a stable emulsion, while enhancing the spreading and penetration ability of the spray liquid on plant leaf surfaces.
• Metalworking fluids: Used in formulating semi-synthetic and emulsifiable cutting fluids, rapidly emulsifying the base oil to form a stable O/W working fluid, balancing lubrication and cooling effects.
• Petroleum extraction: Acts as an emulsion stabilizer in drilling fluids and enhanced oil recovery fluids, improving the mixing uniformity and rheological properties of oil-based/water-based systems.
• Coatings and inks: Serves as an emulsifier in emulsion polymerization, promoting monomer dispersion and forming stable polymer emulsions, enhancing storage stability of coatings.
• Cosmetics: Used in cleansing oils, creams, and lotions as a hydrophilic emulsifier, providing a refreshing, non-greasy skin feel.

Precautions

• This product is a non-hazardous substance, non-flammable liquid (flash point >150°C closed cup), but should still be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, recommended storage temperature 5°C–40°C.
• It is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles when handling to avoid contact with eyes, which may cause mild eye irritation.
• Due to the presence of unsaturated fatty acid ester structures in the product, prolonged exposure to high temperatures or strong oxidizing agents may cause degradation; store away from such substances.
• The product is hygroscopic; keep the container tightly closed after use to prevent moisture and impurities from entering.