Question 1

Is Tween T-20 lauric acid harmful to humans? Does it have an impact on the environment?

Accepted Answer

Tween T-20 lauric acid is a low-toxicity chemical, mainly causing skin and eye irritation in humans, and has certain hazards to aquatic organisms, but its overall safety is relatively high under compliant use conditions. Detailed Description Tween T-20 lauric acid (Polysorbate 20, CAS No.: 9005-64-5) is a non-ionic surctant widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and other fields. Its safety has been recognized by authoritative institutions including the FDA and the European EFSA. Under normal dosage and standard operating conditions, the risk of this product to human health is low. However, it is not completely harmless, especially in industrial production and laboratory operations, where direct contact with concentrated products or long-term repeated exposure may cause health problems. This product has been included in the scope of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), with hazard codes covering H316 (mild skin irritation), H319 (serious eye irritation), H317 (may cause skin allergy) and H402 (harmful to aquatic organisms). This means it is not a highly toxic or carcinogenic, teratogenic chemical, but protective measures must still be taken during operation to avoid direct contact with the original liquid and prevent untreated materials from entering natural water bodies. It is worth noting that the addition amount of Tween T-20 in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals is usually very low (generally not exceeding 1%–5%). The irritation of the diluted final product to human skin and mucous membranes is greatly reduced, so consumers do not need to worry excessively when using commercial products containing Tween T-20. However, for production operators and laboratory researchers, strict adherence to safety operating procedures is necessary when handling high-concentration original liquids. Health and Environmental Impact Parameters Impact CategoryHazard CodeSpecific Description Acute oral toxicity—Low toxicity, rat oral LD₅₀ > 20,000 mg/kg (Database source: Guoli Chemical Product Safety Data) Skin irritationH316Causes mild skin irritation; prolonged or repeated contact may cause dry skin, detting or allergy Eye irritationH319Splashing original liquid into eyes can cause serious eye irritation, with symptoms such as redness, pain, and tearing Skin sensitizationH317May cause allergic skin reaction, with higher risk for sensitive individuals Inhalation risk—Inhalation of vapor or spray may cause respiratory discomfort; ventilation must be ensured Aquatic ecotoxicityH402Harmful to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in water bodies Biodegradability—Biodegradable, but with moderate degradation rate; large emissions in a short period may pose a risk of local water eutrophication Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity—Existing data does not indicate that this product has carcinogenic, mutagenic or reproductive toxicity Safety Usage Recommendations Industrial and laboratory operators: When handling Tween T-20 original liquid, wear impermeable gloves, protective clothing, chemical safety goggles and ce shield. The workplace should have good ventilation. After operation, thoroughly wash exposed skin with soap and water. Contaminated work clothes must not be taken out of the work area. Consumers using products containing Tween T-20: The concentration of Tween T-20 added in cosmetics, shampoos, cial cleansers and other products is extremely low, and normal use does not pose a significant health risk. However, if the product accidentally gets into eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water; if skin rash or stinging sensation occurs, discontinue use and consult a doctor. Environmental protection measures: Do not discharge Tween T-20 original liquid or wastewater containing high concentrations of this substance directly into sewers, surce water or soil. Industrial wastewater should be properly treated (e.g., activated sludge biological degradation) to meet discharge standards before release. Waste containers and residues should be disposed of by a qualified waste treatment agency. Precautions This product is combustible. Store away from heat sources, sparks and open flames. Recommended storage temperature is between 5°C and 30°C. For small spills, absorb and collect with inert materials such as sand or diatomaceous earth; for large spills, contain and prevent entry into water, recover with explosion-proof pump. If swallowed, do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse mouth with water and seek medical attention immediately. This product is incompatible with strong oxidizers and strong acids; store separately. For detailed toxicological and ecotoxicological data, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Question 2

What should I do if problems occur during the use of Tween T-20 laurate? How to obtain technical support?

Accepted Answer

If problems occur during the use of Tween T-20 laurate, first conduct preliminary troubleshooting and confirmation based on common ult types. If the problem cannot be resolved independently, contact the technical team of Haian Guoli Chemical Co., Ltd. directly for professional support. Common usage issues and self-check steps When using Tween T-20 laurate (Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, CAS No.: 9005-64-5), common issues mainly include poor emulsification, product stratification, insufficient dissolution, or abnormal foaming. It is recommended to follow these steps for self-inspection: 1. Check whether the product storage condition is normal. Tween T-20 is a light yellow to amber viscous liquid, with a normal storage temperature of 5°C to 30°C. If the product has experienced low-temperature freezing or prolonged high-temperature exposure, it may lead to degradation of active ingredients, thereby affecting performance. Check if there is stratification, turbidity, or abnormal precipitation in the container. If so, the product may have deteriorated. 2. Check the concentration used and HLB value compatibility. The HLB value of Tween T-20 is 16.7, making it a hydrophilic nonionic surctant suitable for O/W (oil-in-water) emulsion systems. If the emulsion is unstable, it may be due to mismatch between the HLB value and the oil phase. It is recommended to use it in combination with low-HLB emulsifiers (such as Span series). 3. Confirm the pH environment and temperature conditions. Tween T-20 is stable under weakly alkaline conditions but may hydrolyze in strong acid or strong alkali environments. Its cloud point is 76~78°C. If the operating temperature approaches or exceeds the cloud point, the product will lose its surce activity, leading to reduced emulsification or solubilization performance. How to obtain official technical support from Guoli Chemical If the problem remains unresolved after completing the above self-check, contact the technical team of Guoli Chemical promptly for professional diagnosis and guidance. The following communication channels are recommended: Phone consultation: Call the official service hotline of Haian Guoli Chemical Co., Ltd., communicate directly with technical personnel, describe the specific usage scenario, feed ratio, process conditions, and abnormal phenomena, so that engineers can quickly locate the problem. Email/online message: Submit a technical consultation form through the Guoli Chemical official website or send an email, attaching the problem description, product batch number, and on-site photos (if any). The technical team usually responds within 1-2 working days. Request product documentation: Request the Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) and detailed Technical Data Sheet (TDS) of Tween T-20 laurate to fully understand the product's physicochemical indicators and usage limitations. Sample re-inspection: If product quality is suspected, coordinate with Guoli Chemical to send retained samples or unopened batches back for testing, verifying whether key indicators such as acid value (≤2), hydroxyl value (95~110), and saponification value (40~50) meet ctory standards. As a manucturer, Guoli Chemical has in-depth knowledge of the product characteristics, compounding schemes, and applications of Tween T-20 laurate in various industries, especially in cosmetic emulsification, pesticide formulations, and biochemical experiments, and can provide targeted formulation optimization recommendations. Technical Parameters Parameter ItemValueDescription AppearanceLight yellow to amber viscous liquidSignificant color darkening or stratification may indicate deterioration HLB value16.7Suitable for O/W emulsion systems Cloud point (1% aqueous solution)76~78°CSurce activity decreases above this temperature pH value (1% aqueous solution)5.0~7.0Neutral range; may hydrolyze under strong acid or alkali environments Active content≥97%High purity ensures stable performance Surce tension (25°C)30~32 mN/m— Critical micelle concentration (CMC)0.008% (w/v)Surce activity is effective at very low concentrations Acid value≤2 mg KOH/gAbnormal increase indicates possible product degradation Hydroxyl value95~110 mg KOH/gReflects the integrity of the hydrophilic chain segment Application Recommendations For different industry applications, the causes and solutions for product anomalies vary: Cosmetic emulsification: If creams or lotions experience demulsification or stratification, check whether the ratio of oil phase to water phase is reasonable, and whether the homogenization speed and time are sufficient. The recommended dosage of Tween T-20 is generally 1%~5% of the total formula. Pesticide formulations: If the liquid cannot form a uniform emulsion or flocculates after dilution, consider adjusting the emulsifier compounding scheme, or measure water hardness, and add chelating agents appropriately to improve water quality conditions. Biochemical experiments: In ELISA or Western blot, if background signals are excessively high or specific signals are low, check whether the concentration of Tween T-20 in blocking buffer or washing solution is appropriate (usually 0.05%~0.1%), and whether the pH conditions meet experimental requirements. Industrial cleaning agents: If oil removal effect is unsatisctory, appropriately increase the working solution concentration or compound with anionic surctants to enhance cleaning efficiency through synergistic effects. Precautions Service hours: Official technical support from Guoli Chemical is generally available Monday to Friday (except legal holidays). For urgent matters, phone contact is recommended. Information preparation: Before contacting technical support, prepare the product batch number, purchase channel, usage process parameters (temperature, pH, dosage, compounding components), and a detailed description of the problem phenomenon to improve communication efficiency. Safety first: During any troubleshooting, follow product safety instructions, wear chemical-resistant gloves and safety goggles, and ensure the operating environment is well-ventilated. Environmental responsibility: If a product leak occurs, follow the emergency response measures in the safety data sheet to prevent the material from entering drains or the natural environment.

Question 3

How to purchase Tween T-20 lauric acid? What is the minimum order quantity?

Accepted Answer

To purchase Tween T-20 lauric acid, you can directly contact the sales team of Haian Guoli Chemical Co., Ltd. for the latest quotation. Official prices are usually provided per ton Detailed Description Tween T-20 lauric acid (Polysorbate 20) is one of the core products of Guoli Chemical. We offer two quality grades: industrial grade and daily chemical grade. The purchasing process is very straightforward: First, please consult our sales engineers through the Guoli Chemical official website or official contact information; second, provide your company information, required quantity, and product usage, and we will provide you with a customized quotation and technical support. Since the prices of chemical raw materials are greatly affected by market fluctuations, the unit price of the product in the database has not been disclosed. Please refer to the latest quotation from the sales team on the day for the actual price. We support signing formal purchase and sales contracts and can issue special VAT invoices. Packaging and Logistics Information According to the product database, the conventional packaging of Tween T-20 lauric acid is in plastic drums of 50kg/drum and 200kg/drum. Guoli Chemical can arrange nationwide delivery through professional third-party logistics according to customer needs, ensuring that the product is delivered under safe and sealed conditions. Application Suggestions Before placing an order, we strongly recommend that you request a small sample for application testing. Tween T-20 is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. Sampling tests can ensure that its emulsifying and solubilizing properties fully match your specific formulation system. Precautions Minimum Order Quantity: The database has not clearly specified the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for this product. The specific MOQ is usually related to inventory status and total order value. It is recommended that you confirm directly with the sales team when inquiring about the quotation. For regular products, we usually offer flexible MOQ options. Safety Precautions: When handling this product, care should be taken to avoid skin and eye irritation. During storage, keep the packaging sealed, away from heat sources, and store at 5℃~30℃.

Question 4

Does Tween T-20 laurate meet environmental protection requirements? Can a test report be provided?

Accepted Answer

Tween T-20 laurate needs to be used in compliance under controlled conditions, posing potential hazards to aquatic life, and is not unconditionally environmentally friendly. Detailed Explanation The environmental compliance of Tween T-20 laurate (Polysorbate 20) needs to be understood from multiple dimensions. First, this product has the food additive qualification E432, meeting food safety standards. Under compliant usage levels, it has good safety for humans, and its biodegradability is better than many ionic surctants. However, according to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), this product is labeled as H402: Harmful to aquatic life, meaning that if untreated material is discharged directly into water bodies, it may cause adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems such as fish and algae. According to the safety data from the Guoli Chemical Database, the hazard labels for Tween T-20 laurate include H316 (Mild skin irritation), H319 (Serious eye irritation), H317 (May cause skin allergy), and H402 (Harmful to aquatic life). In practical applications, compliant use of this product means: the production and use process must comply with wastewater treatment regulations, and untreated materials must not be discharged directly into sewers or natural water bodies; waste must be disposed of by qualified treatment agencies; enterprises must control emissions in accordance with local environmental regulations. Under these premises, Tween T-20 can be legally used in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and other fields. Overall, Tween T-20 laurate is not a "persistent organic pollutant that cannot be degraded"; it has a certain degree of biodegradability, but at high concentrations, it still poses risks to the aquatic environment. Therefore, as long as enterprises comply with the corresponding environmental emission standards and waste treatment regulations, this product meets environmental requirements. Test Report Regarding specific test reports (such as biodegradability test report, aquatic ecotoxicity test report, RoHS/REACH compliance statement, etc.), the Guoli Chemical Database currently does not include complete test reports for this product. It is recommended to obtain them through the following methods: Contact the sales or technical department of Haian Guoli Chemical Co., Ltd. directly to request product batch test reports (COA) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS). If used in food or pharmaceutical fields, you can request food additive compliance certificates or pharmaceutical excipient qualification documents. For compliance statements regarding specific regulations such as REACH and RoHS, you can submit special requests to Guoli Chemical. Application Suggestions In application scenarios involving environmental audits (such as green-certified personal care products, biodegradable industrial cleaning formulations, etc.), it is recommended to control the usage concentration of Tween T-20 in the product formula and equip appropriate wastewater treatment measures. In food and pharmaceutical applications, it is necessary to strictly comply with the limit requirements for Polysorbate 20 in GB 2760 (Food Additive Use Standard) or national pharmacopoeias. Precautions Do not discharge process wastewater containing Tween T-20 directly into the natural environment. Waste materials must be managed as hazardous waste and disposed of by qualified agencies. When used in the EU region, attention must be paid to the downstream compliance obligations corresponding to the H402 aquatic hazard label under the CLP regulation. It is recommended to consult the complete SDS for detailed ecotoxicological data.

Question 5

What are the advantages of Tween T-20 laurate compared with other similar products?

Accepted Answer

Tween T-20 laurate has the highest HLB value (16.7) in the same series of products, with the strongest hydrophilicity. It is the first choice for oil-in-water (O/W) emulsification, especially good at solubilizing poorly soluble substances and low-foam cleaning scenarios. Detailed Description Compared with other products in the Guoli Chemical Tween series (T-60, T-80, T-85, etc.), the core difference of Tween T-20 laurate (polysorbate 20) lies in the tty acid chain structure and EO addition number. T-20 uses C12 lauric acid (short-chain saturated tty acid) with 20 ethylene oxide (EO) units, which gives it extremely high hydrophilicity — with an HLB value of 16.7, the highest among the Tween series. In contrast, Tween T-60 (C18 stearic acid, HLB about 14.9) and Tween T-80 (C18 oleic acid, HLB about 15.0) have slightly weaker hydrophilicity, while Tween T-85 (trioleate, HLB about 11.0) is more inclined to water-in-oil type. In terms of performance, the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of T-20 laurate is only 0.008% (w/v), with a surce tension as low as 30~32 mN/m, meaning it can significantly reduce the system surce tension at very low addition levels, achieving efficient solubilization and wetting. Meanwhile, its cloud point is as high as 76~78°C, maintaining stability in high-temperature systems, which is superior to some similar products with fewer EO units (such as Tween T-81 with only 5 EO units). In addition, T-20 is a low-foam surctant, particularly suitable for industrial cleaning and biochemical experimental systems that require foam control, which is a significant advantage compared to other nonionic surctants with rich foam. From the perspective of formulation compatibility, T-20 laurate has excellent acid-base stability and hard water tolerance, and can be synergistically compounded with cationic, anionic, and nonionic surctants. The short-carbon-chain lauric acid in its molecular structure gives the product lower viscosity and better low-temperature fluidity (melting point Technical Parameter Comparison ParameterTween T-20 LaurateTween T-60Tween T-80Tween T-85 tty acid typeC12 lauric acid (saturated)C18 stearic acid (saturated)C18 oleic acid (unsaturated)Trioleate (unsaturated) EO unit number20202020 HLB value16.7Approx. 14.9Approx. 15.0Approx. 11.0 Surce tension (mN/m)30~32No dataNo dataNo data CMC (critical micelle concentration)0.008% (w/v)No dataNo dataNo data Cloud point (°C)76~78No dataNo dataNo data Hydroxyl value (mgKOH/g)95~110No dataNo dataNo data Saponification value (mgKOH/g)40~50No dataNo dataNo data AppearanceLight yellow to amber viscous liquidLight yellow to amberLight yellow to amberLight yellow to amber liquid Foam characteristicLow foamNo dataNo dataNo data Melting point (°C)No dataNo dataNo data Note: In the above comparison data, parameters of T-20 laurate are from the Guoli Chemical product database; some parameters of other products are not yet recorded. Application Suggestions Based on the unique advantages of Tween T-20 laurate, it is recommended to be preferred in the following scenarios: High hydrophilicity emulsification needs: Such as dilute emulsions, transparent microemulsion systems; T-20's HLB value of 16.7 can efficiently emulsify light oils and essential oils. Solubilization of poorly soluble components: In solubilization systems of poorly soluble drugs in pharmaceutical oral liquids and injections, as well as flavors and fragrances, T-20 achieves efficient solubilization with its very low CMC (0.008%). Low-foam cleaning scenarios: In occasions requiring foam control such as CIP cleaning, spray cleaning, metal cleaning agents, T-20's low-foam property can reduce the amount of defoamer used. Low-temperature environment applications: Melting point Biochemical and immunological experiments: Washing solutions and blocking solutions in experiments such as ELISA, Western blot, etc.

Question 6

How to store Tween T-20 lauric acid? What is the shelf life?

Accepted Answer

Tween T-20 lauric acid should be stored sealed in a cool, dry place at 5°C to 30°C. Under recommended conditions, the shelf life of unopened product is typically 2 years. Detailed Description Tween T-20 lauric acid (Polysorbate 20) is a chemically stable nonionic surctant, but its quality can be affected by storage conditions. To ensure product performance and safety, the storage specifications listed in the Guoli Chemical Product Safety Data Sheet must be strictly followed. Regarding shelf life, there is no specific value provided in the product database. According to chemical industry practices and the chemical stability of Tween T-20, under recommended storage conditions and with the container kept sealed, the product typically has a shelf life of 2 years from the date of manucture. For products beyond the shelf life, it is recommended to retest key indicators (such as hydroxyl value, acid value, cloud point, etc.) before use to confirm compliance. Storage Conditions Requirements Container Sealing: Keep the container tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination. This product is hygroscopic; reseal promptly after opening. Temperature Control: Recommended storage temperature is 5°C to 30°C. Avoid freezing; the product's melting point is below 0°C, and low temperatures may increase viscosity but do not affect quality. Avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures to prevent ester bond hydrolysis. Environmental Requirements: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames, and protect from direct sunlight. Segregation: Store separately from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizing agents and strong acids. Although stable in weak alkalis, hydrolysis may occur under strong acid or strong alkali conditions. Spill Containment: The storage area should have spill containment cilities, and the floor should be chemically resistant. Packaged in 50 kg or 200 kg plastic drums. Technical Parameters To ensure product quality stability during storage, it is recommended to periodically test the following key indicators: ItemSpecification AppearanceLight yellow to amber viscous liquid Active Content≥97% Hydroxyl Value95～110 mgKOH/g Acid Value≤2 mgKOH/g Saponification Value40～50 mgKOH/g Water Content≤3.0% pH of 1% Aqueous Solution5.0～7.0 Cloud Point76～78℃ Application Recommendations Before use, check the outer packaging for integrity and ensure the product is within its shelf life. If the product becomes more viscous or slightly cloudy due to low-temperature storage, this is a normal physical phenomenon; allow it to return to room temperature naturally and stir gently before use. This does not affect product performance. This product is widely used as an O/W emulsifier, solubilizer, and wetting agent in cosmetics, pharmaceutical excipients, the food industry, and industrial cleaning. Precautions This product is combustible with a flash point above 110°C; keep away from fire sources. The product is hygroscopic; use and reseal promptly after opening. Wear personal protective equipment such as chemical-resistant gloves and safety goggles during use. Do not discharge waste directly into sewers or water bodies; dispose of through qualified agencies.

Question 7

What safety precautions should be taken when using Tween-20 laurate?

Accepted Answer

Tween-20 laurate has overall good safety, but it is a low-toxicity chemical. Special attention should be paid to eye protection, skin sensitization risk, and environmental emission control. Detailed Explanation Tween-20 laurate (Polysorbate 20, CAS: 9005-64-5), as a nonionic surctant, is relatively mild in daily use, but it should still be managed according to chemical safety operation specifications. Its main hazards are concentrated in three aspects: it causes serious eye irritation (H319), may cause mild skin irritation (H316), and prolonged or repeated exposure may cause skin allergic reactions (H317). Additionally, this product is potentially harmful to aquatic organisms (H402), and untreated materials should not be discharged into the natural environment. In practical operations, Tween-20 is usually in liquid form with high viscosity. If splashing occurs during solution preparation, it can easily come into contact with the eyes, so wearing chemical safety goggles is the primary protective measure. At the same time, direct contact of the pure product or high-concentration solution with the skin may cause a degreasing effect, leading to dry skin or irritation. It is recommended to wear impermeable gloves when in contact and thoroughly wash hands and exposed skin with soap and water after operation. This product is combustible but not highly flammable. It should be stored away from heat sources and open flames. Suitable extinguishing media include dry powder, carbon dioxide, alcohol-resistant foam, and water spray, but direct water jets should be avoided to prevent liquid splashing and spreading. The recommended storage temperature is 5°C to 30°C, avoiding freezing or prolonged high-temperature exposure. Containers must be kept tightly closed and stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Safety Symbols and Hazard Codes Hazard CodeMeaningProtection Recommendations H316Causes mild skin irritationWear impermeable gloves and protective clothing H319Causes serious eye irritationWear chemical safety goggles and ce shield H317May cause an allergic skin reactionAvoid prolonged or repeated contact, wash thoroughly after handling H402Harmful to aquatic organismsAvoid untreated material from entering drains, water sources, and soil Emergency Treatment Recommendations Route of ExposureEmergency Measures Skin ContactImmediately remove contaminated clothing, rinse skin with plenty of running water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if skin irritation or rash persists Eye ContactRinse cautiously with plenty of water or saline for at least 15 minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do, then continue rinsing; seek immediate medical attention if eye irritation persists InhalationMove the person to fresh air immediately, keep the airway clear; seek medical attention if feeling unwell IngestionRinse mouth with water, do not induce vomiting, and seek medical attention immediately Application Safety Recommendations In different application scenarios, the concentration of Tween-20 varies widely, and safety precautions also differ: Cosmetics and personal care field: When used as an emulsifier and solubilizer, the content of Tween-20 in the finished product is usually low (0.5%-5%), significantly reducing skin irritation, but formulators still need to take protective measures when handling the pure substance. Pharmaceutical and food industry: Ensure the use of Tween-20 that meets pharmaceutical or food grade standards (e.g., E432 specification), and strictly comply with GMP standards and relevant regulations. Laboratory use (ELISA/Western blot): When preparing blocking buffer and washing solution, weigh and dissolve in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling dust or vapor. Industrial cleaning and textile processing: For large-scale use, special attention should be paid to wastewater treatment; wastewater containing Tween-20 must be treated to meet standards before discharge. Notes No eating, drinking, or smoking in the workplace to prevent accidental ingestion. Contaminated work clothes must not be taken out of the work area; they should be washed before reuse. Operators should receive standardized safety training and fully understand the hazard characteristics and emergency measures of the product. In case of small spills, absorb with inert materials such as sand or diatomaceous earth for collection; for large spills, contain to prevent entry into drains and dispose of by qualified waste disposal agencies. Residues and contaminated packaging must not be directly discharged into drains, surce water, or soil; they must be handled by professional agencies in accordance with local regulations. For detailed toxicological and ecotoxicological data, please refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS).

Question 8

How to use Tween T-20 laurate? What is the recommended dosage?

Accepted Answer

The usage method of Tween T-20 varies by application field. The recommended dosage is typically between 0.1% and 5%, depending on system requirements and functional needs. Detailed Description Tween T-20 (Polysorbate 20) is a nonionic surctant 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 t-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. Technical Parameters Parameter ItemValue AppearanceLight yellow to amber viscous liquid Ionic TypeNonionic HLB Value16.7 Active Content≥97% pH of 1% Aqueous Solution5.0~7.0 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 Surce Tension (mN/m)30~32 Heavy Metals (ppm)≤10 Arsenic (ppm)≤2 Application Recommendations 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 FieldFunctional RoleRecommended Dosage (w/w) Cosmetic Creams/LotionsO/W Emulsifier1.0%~5.0% cial Cleansers/Makeup RemoversSolubilizer, Mild Cleanser2.0%~10.0% Fragrance/Essential Oil SolubilizationSolubilizer3 to 5 times the amount of fragrance (approximately 0.5%~5% in the system) Oral Liquids/InjectionsDrug Solubilizer0.1%~2.0% (based on total formulation) Food Emulsification (e.g., Ice Cream)Emulsifying Stabilizer0.1%~0.5% Industrial/Household CleanersWetting Agent, Emulsifying Detergent1.0%~5.0% Textile AuxiliariesWetting Agent, Antistatic Agent0.5%~2.0% (based on working solution) Pesticide Emulsifiable Concentrates/EmulsionsEmulsifier2.0%~8.0% (based on total formulation) Waterborne Coatings/InksPigment Wetting Dispersant0.5%~2.0% of pigment amount ELISA Wash Buffer (PBST)Nonionic Detergent0.05%~0.1% (i.e., 500~1000 ppm) Western Blot Blocking BufferBackground Signal Reduction0.05%~0.2% Precautions The dosage should be optimized through experiments based on the specific system. The above ranges are general industry references and are not absolute standards. When used for solubilizing fragrances or essential oils, it is recommended to use a Tween T-20 to solubilizate ratio of 3:1 to 5:1, mix thoroughly, then slowly add water for dilution. This product has a high HLB value (16.7), suitable for O/W emulsion systems. For preparing W/O emulsions, it is recommended to combine it with low HLB emulsifiers (such as Span series). Wear impermeable gloves and goggles during operation to avoid prolonged direct contact with skin and eyes. Avoid discharging untreated material directly into water bodies to prevent harm to aquatic organisms.

Question 9

In which industries and processes is Tween-20 lauric acid mainly used?

Accepted Answer

With its excellent emulsifying, solubilizing, and dispersing properties, Tween-20 lauric acid is widely used in eight core industries: personal care, pharmaceuticals, food, industrial cleaning, textiles, agrochemicals, coatings and inks, and biochemical experiments. Detailed Description Tween-20 lauric acid (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, Polysorbate 20) is a high-performance nonionic O/W emulsifier. Its molecular structure contains both hydrophilic and lipophilic groups, allowing it to form a stable intercial film at the oil-water interce, efficiently preparing and stabilizing oil-in-water emulsion systems. At the same time, it exhibits excellent chemical stability in acid, alkali, and hard water media, and can be flexibly compounded with cationic, anionic, and other nonionic surctants, making it a versatile tool for formulation engineers. In the field of personal care and cosmetics, Tween-20 acts as a mild nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer, widely used in creams, lotions, cial cleansers, shampoos, and body washes. It helps uniformly mix the aqueous and oil phases, improving product stability and skin feel, while gently cleansing the skin and hair. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is commonly used for solubilizing and emulsifying active ingredients in oral liquid preparations, injections, and topical formulations, effectively enhancing the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. In the food processing industry, Tween-20 serves as a food additive (E432), acting as an emulsifier and whipping stabilizer in products such as ice cream, whipped cream, and pastries, preventing ice crystal formation and oil-water separation, thereby extending shelf life. In industrial and household cleaning, Tween-20 effectively removes grease and stubborn residues due to its excellent wetting, emulsifying, and detersive properties. In the textile industry, it is used as a wetting agent, emulsifier, and antistatic agent, cilitating uniform penetration of dyes and finishing agents. In agrochemical formulations, it helps disperse pesticide active ingredients uniformly in the aqueous phase, improving spreading and adhesion. In coatings and inks systems, it serves as a wetting and dispersing agent, promoting uniform pigment dispersion. In biochemical and immunological experiments, Tween-20 is an indispensable reagent, commonly used in ELISA wash solutions and Western blot blocking buffers, effectively reducing nonspecific binding and background signals. Application Fields and Processes Overview Industry Specific Process/Product Functional Role Cosmetics and Personal Care Creams, lotions, cial cleansers, shampoos, body washes, makeup removers Emulsifier, solubilizer, mild cleansing agent Pharmaceutical Industry Oral liquid preparations, injections, topical formulations Solubilizer, emulsifier, improves bioavailability Food Processing Ice cream, whipped cream, pastries, beverages, condiments Emulsifier, whipping stabilizer, anti-ice crystal (E432) Industrial and Household Cleaning Hard surce cleaners, metal cleaners, household cleaning products Wetting agent, emulsifier, detersive component Textile Industry Spinning oils, dyeing auxiliaries, finishing processes Wetting agent, emulsifier, antistatic agent Agrochemical Formulations Pesticide emulsifiable concentrates, oil-in-water emulsions, suspension concentrates Emulsifier, dispersant, spreading agent Coatings and Inks Water-based coatings, water-based ink systems Pigment wetting and dispersing agent, system stabilizer Biochemical and Immunological Experiments ELISA wash solutions, Western blot blocking buffers, cell lysis Nonionic detergent, membrane protein solubilization, background reduction Application Recommendations In practical formulation design, Tween-20 (HLB value approximately 16.7) is suitable for O/W emulsion systems. When a lower HLB value is needed, it can be combined with Span series (e.g., Span S-20) to achieve a more precise hydrophilic-lipophilic balance. The recommended dosage is typically 0.5% to 5% of the total formulation, and should be optimized based on system requirements and experimentation. This product is stable over a pH range of 3 to 10, making it suitable for most conventional formulations. Precautions During operation, it is recommended to wear impermeable gloves and chemical safety goggles to avoid prolonged or repeated skin contact, which may cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions. Avoid direct contact with eyes, as it may cause serious eye irritation. This substance is potentially harmful to aquatic organisms. Wastewater containing this product must be treated to meet discharge standards before being released; do not discharge directly into water bodies. Recommended storage temperature: 5°C to 30°C. Keep container tightly closed, away from heat and direct sunlight, and avoid freezing. This product is flammable. Suitable extinguishing media: dry powder, carbon dioxide, alcohol-resistant foam, or water spray. Avoid using straight water streams.

Question 10

What are the physicochemical technical parameters of Tween T-20 lauric acid?

Accepted Answer

Comprehensive physicochemical parameters of Tween T-20 lauric acid (Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate), covering basic physical properties, surce activity indicators, and safety and environmental data. The following are the complete technical parameters from the Guoli Chemical product database. Detailed Description Tween T-20 lauric acid (CAS: 9005-64-5) is a classic nonionic surctant, chemically named polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, with molecular formula C58H114O26 and molecular weight of approximately 1228. The product appears as a light yellow to amber viscous liquid with a slight characteristic odor, readily soluble in polar solvents such as water, methanol, and ethanol, and is hygroscopic. As an O/W emulsifier, its HLB value is as high as 16.7, making it a highly hydrophilic surctant capable of efficiently stabilizing oil-in-water emulsion systems. In terms of surce activity, the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of Tween T-20 is only 0.008% (w/v), and the surce tension can be reduced to 30~32 mN/m, demonstrating excellent intercial activity. The cloud point ranges from 76 to 78℃, ensuring good solubility and functionality at room temperature and relatively high temperatures. The product has an active content of ≥97%, an acid value of ≤2 mg KOH/g, a saponification value of 40~50 mg KOH/g, and a hydroxyl value of 95~110 mg KOH/g. These indicators reflect the high purity and degree of esterification. Additionally, the product contains extremely low levels of heavy metals (≤10 ppm) and arsenic (≤2 ppm), meeting the strict standards for food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade applications. The product has good chemical stability and is not prone to deterioration under normal storage and use conditions. However, it may undergo hydrolysis in strong acidic, strong alkaline, or prolonged high-temperature environments. Its foam characteristics are low foam, making it suitable for applications requiring rapid defoaming or low-foam systems. The freezing point is below 0℃, and the flash point is greater than 110℃, cilitating handling and transportation at room temperature. It is recommended not to store the product with incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers or strong acids. The storage temperature should be controlled between 5℃ and 30℃, avoiding freezing or prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Technical Parameters Parameter Item Specification Value Remarks Chemical NamePolyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate—— CAS Number9005-64-5—— Molecular FormulaC58H114O26—— Molecular Weight~1228Average molecular weight AppearanceLight yellow to amber viscous liquid—— Ionic TypeNonionic—— HLB Value16.7Extremely hydrophilic Active Content≥97%—— Moisture≤3.0%—— pH (1% Aqueous Solution)5.0~7.0—— pH (5% Aqueous Solution)5.0~7.0—— Density (25℃)~1.10 g/cm³—— Kinematic Viscosity (25℃)~400 mm²/s—— Low-Shear Viscosity~450 mPa·s—— Refractive Index (25℃)1.468~1.472—— Freezing Point/Melting Point＜0℃—— Cloud Point76~78℃—— Flash Point＞110℃Open cup method Acid Value≤2 mg KOH/g—— Saponification Value40~50 mg KOH/g—— Hydroxyl Value95~110 mg KOH/g—— Iodine Value≤2 g I2/100g—— Surce Tension30~32 mN/m25℃, aqueous solution Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC)0.008% (w/v)25℃ Foam CharacteristicsLow foam—— HygroscopicityHygroscopic—— SolubilityReadily soluble in water, methanol, ethanol—— Chemical StabilityStable, may hydrolyze in strong acid, strong base, and high temperatures—— Heavy Metals (as Pb)≤10 ppm—— Arsenic (As)≤2 ppm—— Packaging50kg/200kg plastic drum—— Application Recommendations With a high HLB value of 16.7, Tween T-20 is particularly suitable for O/W type (

Tween T-20 Lauric Acid

Product Details

Applications

Properties

Safety

Product Overview

Performance Features

Packaging and Storage

Tween / Polysorbate Applications

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First Aid

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Property	Value
CAS No.	9005-64-5
Molecular Formula	C58H114O26
Appearance	Pale yellow to brownish-yellow oily liquid
Ionic Type	Nonionic
Avg. Molecular Weight	~1228
Cloud Point	76~78
Active Content	≥97
pH Value(1%)	5.0~7.0
pH Value(5%)	5.0~7.0
Iodine Value	≤2
Solubility	Readily soluble in water, ethanol
Surface Tension	30~32
CMC	0.008% (w/v)
Acid Value	≤2
Saponification Value	40~50
Hydroxyl Value	95~110
Moisture	≤3.0
Density	~1.10
Kinematic Viscosity	~400
Refractive Index	1.468~1.472
Flash Point	>110
Hygroscopicity	Hygroscopic
Chemical Stability	Stable; may hydrolyze under strong acid/alkali and high temperature
Foam Property	Low foam
Alkali Resistance	Stable in weak alkali; may hydrolyze in strong alkali
Viscosity	~450
Melting Point	＜0
Low Shear Viscosity	~450
Solid Content	≥97
Heavy Metal	≤10
Arsenic	≤2

Tween T-20 Lauric Acid

Product Details

Applications

Properties

Safety

Product Overview

Performance Features

Packaging and Storage

Tween / Polysorbate Applications

Product Properties

Safety

GHS

Handling

Storage

First Aid

Related Products

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