Product Name: Tween 85
English Alias: Polysorbate 85; Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate
CAS Number: 9005-70-3
Molecular Formula: C₁₀₀H₁₈₈O₂₈ (approximate, varies with ethylene oxide units)
Molecular Weight: ~1830 g/mol (approximate)
Appearance: Yellow to amber viscous liquid
Package: 25 kg/drum, 50 kg/drum (HDPE plastic drum)
What is Tween 85?
Tween 85 is a nonionic surfactant derived from sorbitol and oleic acid, appearing as a yellow to amber viscous liquid. It is soluble in water, ethanol, and most organic solvents. As a polysorbate surfactant, it functions as an effective emulsifier, dispersant, and solubilizer, particularly for water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions. It exhibits good stability and compatibility with various formulation ingredients.
COA (Certificate of Analysis):
Inspection item and name | Technical standard requirements | Test result | Individual judgment |
Appearance | Thick yellowish to orange-yellow liquid | Pass | Pass |
Acid value (mgKOH/g) | ≤ 2.0 | 0.7 | Pass |
Saponification value (mgKOH/g) | 45 - 55 | 53 | Pass |
Hydroxyl value (mgKOH/g) | 65 - 80 | 78 | Pass |
Iodine value (gI₂/100g) | 18 - 24 | 21 | Pass |
Peroxide value (meq/kg) | ≤ 10 | 3.2 | Pass |
pH value | 5.0 - 7.5 | 6.2 | Pass |
Ethylene glycol & diethylene glycol | ≤ 0.01% | Ethylene glycol 0.005% Diethylene glycol 0.008% | Pass |
Ethylene oxide and dioxane | Ethylene oxide ≤ 0.0001% Dioxane ≤ 0.001% | Neither ethylene oxide nor dioxane were detected | Pass |
Application:
Food Industry: Emulsifier in baked goods, ice cream, and dairy products
Cosmetics: Emulsifier and solubilizer in creams, lotions, and personal care products
Pharmaceuticals: Excipient in topical formulations and drug delivery systems
Agrochemicals: Emulsifier in pesticide and herbicide formulations
Textile Processing: Lubricant and softener in fiber processing
Leather Industry: Fatliquoring agent in leather treatment
Safety Profile:
Tween 85 is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food use and approved for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. May cause mild eye irritation. Use appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves when handling. The substance is biodegradable and has low environmental impact. For detailed safety information, consult the full Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Storage Requirements:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed and sealed. Maintain storage temperature between 10-30°C. Protect from moisture and freezing.
Transport & Packaging:
Tween 85 is packaged in HDPE plastic drums (25 kg or 50 kg net weight per drum). Transport as non-hazardous material under normal conditions. Ensure containers are properly sealed and protected from physical damage during transportation. Store away from strong oxidizing agents.