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DESCRIPTION
E492, also known as Sorbitan Tristearate, is an ester of sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and stearic acid (a saturated fatty acid).
It is used primarily as an emulsifier in food and cosmetic products.
In the food industry, Sorbitan Tristearate helps to stabilize emulsions, preventing the separation of water and oil-based ingredients, and can be found in products like margarine, ice cream, and certain baked goods.
Cas Number
1338-41-6
Synonyms
Sorbitan tristearate,Sorbitan tri(stearate), Span 65,Sorbitan 65,Triglyceride of sorbitol and stearic acid
Definition and Chemical Structure of Sorbitan Tristearate
Sorbitan Tristearate, also known as E492, is an ester of sorbitol and stearic acid, commonly used as a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Its chemical structure consists of a sorbitol backbone esterified with three molecules of stearic acid.
The molecule is often depicted as C24H48O6.
It is a white, waxy solid at room temperature, and its use as an emulsifier relies on its ability to reduce surface tension between substances like oils and water.
Importance in Food and Pharmaceutical Industries
Sorbitan Tristearate is primarily used as an emulsifier in foods such as margarine, ice cream, and confectioneries.
It helps to blend fat and water-based ingredients that typically don't mix, improving texture, consistency, and shelf life.
In pharmaceuticals, it aids in the formation of stable suspensions and creams and is an essential component in drug formulations for controlled-release delivery systems.
Historical Context and Development
Sorbitan Tristearate was first developed in the mid-20th century, during a period of rapid innovation in the chemistry of emulsifiers and surfactants.
As food chemistry advanced, emulsifiers like Sorbitan Tristearate became essential in the development of processed foods and cosmetic formulations, driving demand for such products.
Chemical Properties
Molecular Formula
The molecular formula of Sorbitan Tristearate is C24H48O6, indicating it is made from a sorbitol molecule (C6H14O6) and three stearic acid molecules (C18H36O2).
Physical Properties
Melting Point: Sorbitan Tristearate typically melts at temperatures between 60°C to 70°C.
Solubility: It is practically insoluble in water but soluble in oils and organic solvents, making it useful in emulsification processes.
Appearance: It appears as a white to off-white waxy solid at room temperature, which is why it is often used as a thickening agent in emulsions.
Chemical Reactivity
Sorbitan Tristearate is chemically stable under normal conditions.
It does not readily react with common acids or bases and has a long shelf life.
Its ester bonds are hydrolyzed in acidic conditions, breaking down into sorbitol and stearic acid.
This reactivity is considered when formulating with it in various products.
Synthesis and Production
Methods of Synthesis
Sorbitan Tristearate is synthesized through an esterification reaction between sorbitol and stearic acid.
This process is typically catalyzed by acid catalysts like sulfuric acid or other esterification agents.
The esterification process involves heating stearic acid with sorbitol, often under reflux conditions, to drive the reaction toward ester formation.
The reaction produces water as a byproduct, which must be removed to ensure the completion of the esterification.
Industrial Production Processes
In industrial production, Sorbitan Tristearate is manufactured in large-scale reactors, where sorbitol and stearic acid are mixed, and the esterification is controlled carefully to achieve the desired product specifications.
The manufacturing process involves purification steps, such as filtration or distillation, to remove any unreacted raw materials or byproducts.
Raw Materials and Their Sources
Sorbitol is usually derived from glucose or corn syrup, and stearic acid is obtained from animal fats or vegetable oils, primarily palm oil or soybean oil.
These raw materials are chosen for their availability, cost-effectiveness, and reliability in large-scale production.
Applications in Food Industry
Role as an Emulsifier
Sorbitan Tristearate is widely used as an emulsifier in the food industry, helping to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and prevent separation of ingredients in processed foods.
It reduces the surface tension between water and fat, allowing for the smooth blending of ingredients that would otherwise not mix.
For example, in margarine, it helps blend the fat with water, giving the product a smooth texture.
Specific Examples of Food Products Using Sorbitan Tristearate
Margarine: The emulsifier enables the even dispersion of oils and water, resulting in a stable emulsion with desirable texture.
Ice Cream: It helps to maintain the smoothness of the ice cream by preventing the formation of ice crystals, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Confectioneries: Used to improve the texture of products like chocolate, ensuring smoothness and preventing crystallization.
Regulatory Status
Sorbitan Tristearate is considered safe for consumption when used within approved limits.
It is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA.
It is also approved for use in food products by regulatory bodies in the European Union, where it is designated as E492.
Applications in Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics
Use as a Stabilizer and Emulsifier in Formulations
In pharmaceuticals, Sorbitan Tristearate is used to stabilize suspensions, creams, lotions, and other formulations.
It helps to create stable emulsions that ensure the active ingredients are evenly distributed.
In drug formulations, it can also help control the release of the active ingredient, making it useful for sustained-release or controlled-release medications.
Impact on Texture, Consistency, and Drug Delivery
Sorbitan Tristearate improves the texture of cosmetic products such as moisturizers and shampoos, contributing to their smoothness and ease of application.
In drug delivery systems, it can enhance the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs by forming stable emulsions or suspensions that facilitate easier absorption in the body.
Safety and Tolerability
Sorbitan Tristearate has been evaluated for safety in topical and oral applications, and it is generally considered non-toxic when used appropriately.
It is not known to cause irritation or adverse reactions when applied to the skin or ingested, although excessive amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Environmental Impact
Biodegradability and Environmental Concerns
Sorbitan Tristearate is considered to be biodegradable, breaking down into sorbitol and stearic acid in the environment.
However, the rate of degradation may depend on environmental conditions.
There are concerns about the use of palm oil-derived stearic acid, as its production can contribute to deforestation and habitat loss.
Life-Cycle Analysis and Sustainability Considerations
Life-cycle assessments of Sorbitan Tristearate production have highlighted the importance of sourcing raw materials sustainably, particularly for stearic acid.
Efforts are being made to source stearic acid from sustainable palm oil plantations or plant-based sources to reduce environmental impacts.
Recent Research and Innovations
Advancements in Sorbitan Tristearate Usage
Recent studies have focused on improving the efficiency of emulsifiers like Sorbitan Tristearate in low-fat or reduced-calorie food formulations, where its role as a stabilizing agent becomes crucial.
Novel Applications
Researchers are investigating the use of Sorbitan Tristearate in innovative drug delivery systems, such as nanocarriers or liposomes, to improve the solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs.
It is also being explored in sustainable packaging materials and as a component in biodegradable plastics.
Future Trends in Research
The focus of future research will likely include optimizing the production processes to reduce environmental impact, as well as exploring new uses in biotechnology, nanomedicine, and environmentally friendly products.
Conclusion
Summary of Key Findings
Sorbitan Tristearate is a versatile, safe, and effective emulsifier and stabilizer used across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Its broad range of applications, from food emulsions to drug delivery, demonstrates its importance in modern industrial formulations.
Prospects for Future Applications and Research
As demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly ingredients grows, Sorbitan Tristearate may see an expansion in its uses, particularly in eco-friendly packaging and drug delivery systems.
Final Thoughts
Sorbitan Tristearate continues to be a critical component in various industries, and its continued research and innovation will ensure its relevance and utility in the future.
SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT E492 SORBITAN TRISTEARATE
First aid measures:
Description of first aid measures:
General advice:
Consult a physician.
Show this safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
Move out of dangerous area:
If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air.
If not breathing, give artificial respiration.
Consult a physician.
In case of skin contact:
Take off contaminated clothing and shoes immediately.
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
Consult a physician.
In case of eye contact:
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician.
Continue rinsing eyes during transport to hospital.
If swallowed:
Do NOT induce vomiting.
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Rinse mouth with water.
Consult a physician.
Firefighting measures:
Extinguishing media:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas
Advice for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental release measures:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
Use personal protective equipment.
Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas.
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste.
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
Handling and storage:
Precautions for safe handling:
Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
Storage class (TRGS 510): 8A: Combustible, corrosive hazardous materials
Exposure controls/personal protection:
Control parameters:
Components with workplace control parameters
Contains no substances with occupational exposure limit values.
Exposure controls:
Appropriate engineering controls:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice.
Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
Personal protective equipment:
Eye/face protection:
Tightly fitting safety goggles.
Faceshield (8-inch minimum).
Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
Skin protection:
Handle with gloves.
Gloves must be inspected prior to use.
Use proper glove
removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product.
Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices.
Wash and dry hands.
Full contact:
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
Splash contact
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
It should not be construed as offering an approval for any specific use scenario.
Body Protection:
Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Respiratory protection:
Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a fullface respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls.
If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator.
Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Control of environmental exposure
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Stability and reactivity:
Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents:
Hazardous decomposition products:
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions.
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas.
Disposal considerations:
Waste treatment methods:
Product:
Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company.
Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
Contaminated packaging:
Dispose of as unused product.
