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Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85), is a nonionic emulsifier and surfactant and used in cosmetics and foods.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is a polyoxyethylene sorbitan trioleate non-ionic surfactant.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is a mixture of oleate esters of sorbitol and sorbitol anhydrides, consisting predominantly of the triester, condensed with approximately 20 moles of ethylene oxide.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) can be used in agricultural products like fertilizers and plant growth regulators to help ensure that the active ingredients are uniformly dispersed and adhere to plant surfaces for better efficacy.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is employed in nanotechnology and drug delivery systems to help solubilize drugs and enhance their absorption, including in liposomal and micellar systems.
These delivery systems can target specific areas within the body, such as tumor sites, improving therapeutic outcomes.
CAS Number: 9005-70-3
Molecular Formula: CH4
Molecular Weight: 16.04246
EINECS Number: 618-422-4
Synonyms:
polyoxyethylene 20 sorbitaltrioleate; protasorbto-20; sorbimacrogoltrioleate300; sorbitan,trioleatepolyoxyethylenederiv.; tri-9-octadecenoate,poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)derivs.,(z,z,z)-sorbita; tri-9-octadecenoate,poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)derivs.,(Z,Z,Z)-Sorbitan; Polyethylene glycol sorbitan trioleate, Polyoxyethylene sorbitantrioleate; Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate, Polyoxyethylenesorbitan Trioleate
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier made by combining sorbitan (a sugar alcohol) with oleic acid (a fatty acid) and ethoxylating it with 20 moles of ethylene oxide.
Ungraded products supplied by Spectrum are indicative of a grade suitable for general industrial use or research purposes and typically are not suitable for human consumption or therapeutic use.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is part of the Polysorbate group, which includes several different sorbitan esters and ethylene oxide derivatives used in various industrial and consumer applications.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) refers to the ethylene oxide (EO) groups attached to the sorbitan backbone.
In the case of Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85), it specifically has 20 ethylene oxide units.
Melting point: -20 °C
Boiling point: 100 °C
Density: 1.028 g/mL at 20 °C
vapor pressure: <1 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
refractive index: n20/D 1.473
Flash point: >230 °F
storage temp.: Store below +30°C.
solubility: Dispersible in water, in anhydrous ethanol, in ethyl acetate and in methanol, practically insoluble in fatty oils and in liquid paraffin.
form: viscous liquid
Specific Gravity: 1.030 (20/4℃)
color: Light yellow to Brown
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is formed when sorbitan is esterified with oleic acid (a monounsaturated fatty acid found in animal and vegetable fats).
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) has a relatively high HLB value (around 13-14), which means it is more effective as an emulsifier in formulations that require the blending of water and oil.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is generally considered to be safe when used in concentrations approved by regulatory authorities (such as the FDA for food and cosmetics). However, in some individuals, it may cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially in higher concentrations.
It is not typically considered toxic or hazardous under normal conditions of use.
The HLB of Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is around 13–14, indicating its effectiveness as a highly hydrophilic emulsifier, which helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is first esterified with oleic acid (C18H34O2) to form sorbitan trioleate, a fatty acid ester.
The sorbitan ester is then subjected to ethoxylation, where it reacts with ethylene oxide (C2H4O) to form Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate.
The number 20 refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units attached to the sorbitan backbone.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is soluble in water and is also soluble in a variety of organic solvents such as alcohols, oils, and organic esters.
Its high solubility in water is a key feature that makes it effective for emulsifying a range of oil-based substances into water-based solutions.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in baked goods, confectioneries, and dairy products to ensure smooth texture, prevent ingredient separation, and improve mouthfeel.
It enhances the dispersion of flavoring agents, colors, and emulsified fats in food products.
In some cases, it helps mimic the properties of fats, providing a creamy texture without the need for actual fat, making products more low-fat or light.
Helps to solubilize active ingredients like fragrances and oils, ensuring they remain uniformly mixed with the rest of the formula.
Provides a smooth, consistent texture, and prevents the formulation from separating over time.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) enhances the spreadability of the products on the skin.
Used to emulsify oils, making it easier to remove makeup without irritation.
Aids in solubilizing ingredients such as UV filters, ensuring even distribution on the skin.
In topical formulations, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) can help in the delivery of poorly soluble drugs by enhancing their dissolution in the formulation, making it easier for the body to absorb the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
Helps to solubilize hydrophobic drug molecules and stabilizes emulsions or suspensions in injectable solutions.
In liquid pharmaceutical preparations, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) helps maintain a uniform distribution of the active drug, preventing it from settling or separating.
As an emulsifier in pesticide formulations, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) helps to improve the distribution and penetration of the pesticide into plant tissues.
In herbicides, it aids in the mixing of oil-based active ingredients with water, improving the efficacy and coverage of the application.
In industrial formulations, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used as a stabilizer and dispersing agent, helping to maintain a consistent mix of pigments and solvents.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) improves the emulsification of water and oils in lubricants, enhancing performance in industrial applications like cutting fluids and metalworking lubricants.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in textile processing to help emulsify oils and prevent the buildup of static electricity.
Enhances the emulsification of oils and greases, improving the cleaning action.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used to break down dirt and grease, allowing for effective cleaning of surfaces while maintaining a smooth and non-abrasive formula.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is approved for use by several regulatory bodies worldwide.
It is considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products, up to certain concentrations.
It is approved for use in cosmetics and personal care products and is listed in the Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng).
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is also approved for use in pharmaceuticals and agricultural chemicals, subject to specific guidelines and concentration limits.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is biodegradable, which means it breaks down in the environment over time.
However, like many surfactants, it can still contribute to water pollution if large amounts are released into water systems.
While typically not toxic in low concentrations, high concentrations of surfactants like Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) can be toxic to aquatic organisms, affecting water quality and ecosystem balance.
It can lower the surface tension of water, impacting the behavior of aquatic animals and plants.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is generally considered to have a low toxicity profile. However, some safety precautions include:
It is well tolerated by most skin types, but in rare cases, it may cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.
Like many surfactants, it may cause mild irritation to the eyes if contact occurs. Rinsing with water is typically sufficient to alleviate symptoms.
Although rare, inhalation of the product in aerosolized form (such as in sprays) may cause mild irritation to the respiratory tract.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is typically produced through a process called ethoxylation.
This involves the addition of ethylene oxide molecules to a base molecule of sorbitan trioleate, which is derived from oleic acid (a fatty acid).
The process results in the formation of a polymer chain (ethylene oxide) that makes Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) more hydrophilic (water-attracting), allowing it to function as a surfactant in emulsification processes.
The molecular formula for Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is C24H46O6, reflecting the combination of sorbitan, fatty acids (oleic acid), and polyoxyethylene groups (ethylene oxide polymers).
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) consists of sorbitan (a cyclic sorbitol ester) with three oleic acid molecules esterified at the hydroxyl positions, with a polyethylene glycol (PEG) group attached to the sorbitan molecule via ether linkages.
The "20" in the name refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units attached to the molecule.
The hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) of Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is typically around 15-16, which means it’s more hydrophilic and therefore suitable for forming oil-in-water emulsions.
One of the unique properties of Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is its ability to improve bioavailability by enhancing the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs.
This is achieved by incorporating it into drug delivery systems like liposomes and micelles, which can help drugs cross biological membranes more effectively.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) also allows for better absorption of active ingredients through the skin or mucosal membranes in topical or oral formulations.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is frequently used in injectable formulations of lipophilic drugs (drugs that are poorly soluble in water) due to its solubilizing properties.
It ensures that such drugs are properly dissolved in the solution, making them easier to inject and ensuring more effective bioavailability once inside the body.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85)’s also used to prevent precipitation or crystallization of drugs during storage or transportation.
The surfactant helps maintain the drug in a dissolved state for extended periods, preventing clumping that can occur when the drug becomes less soluble.
In cosmetic and personal care products, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) plays a critical role in improving the long-term stability of emulsions. Emulsions are mixtures of oil and water, which are normally unstable and tend to separate over time.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) ensures that the oils and water phases remain uniformly blended, giving products a smooth, consistent texture.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is often used in products like moisturizers, anti-aging creams, facial serums, and cleansers to help active ingredients such as vitamins (like Vitamin E), antioxidants, and hydroxy acids stay evenly distributed, enhancing their effectiveness on the skin.
It can be found in conditioners and shampoos to improve the spreadability of conditioning agents, and to help reduce frizz by smoothing hair cuticles and improving the moisture balance.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is commonly used in various forms depending on the intended application:
It can be used as a solubilizing agent for oral drugs, ensuring that the active ingredient is well-dissolved and absorbed by the body.
As an emulsifier in topical creams, it stabilizes emulsions, allowing both water and oils to blend effectively without separating.
This is particularly important for moisturizing creams and sunscreens.
In injectables, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) helps to solubilize and stabilize compounds that are otherwise difficult to administer.
It prevents the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) from aggregating or crystallizing.
It is also found in eye drops and ocular formulations where it stabilizes the formulation, ensuring even distribution of the active ingredients, which can improve absorption and sustained release.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in the formulation of biopharmaceuticals, especially recombinant proteins, vaccines, and gene therapies, where it helps stabilize protein structures and prevents aggregation or denaturation during storage and transportation.
In bioprocessing, it can act as a non-ionic detergent, breaking up cell membranes and helping to solubilize membrane-bound proteins for extraction and analysis.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is commonly used in the preparation of nanoparticles, including liposomes and nanoemulsions, as it helps to stabilize these particles in a suspension and prevent coalescence.
This property is essential in drug delivery systems, where controlled release and targeted delivery are required.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85)’s also used in the development of liposomal drug formulations, where the surfactant helps stabilize the lipid bilayers, enhancing the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in various veterinary products, especially in injectable vaccines and oral medications for pets and livestock.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used to improve the solubility and bioavailability of active ingredients, ensuring that the formulations are effective and safe for use in animals.
In anti-aging and moisturizing products, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) helps deliver active ingredients such as peptides, hyaluronic acid, and retinoids more effectively to the skin, improving their penetration and effectiveness.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in shampoos and conditioners to emulsify natural oils and butters (like argan oil, coconut oil) with water, leaving the hair moisturized without weighing it down.
Works in sunscreens and after-sun products to ensure even application of UV filters and improve the spreadability of sun protection agents across the skin.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is sometimes incorporated into wound care products (e.g., hydrogel dressings and surgical lubricants) to stabilize the gel structure and prevent drying out.
It helps to maintain an optimal moist environment for wound healing.
In medical devices like catheters and surgical instruments, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used to improve the slip properties of lubricants, making procedures smoother and reducing friction.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) can be found in fabric softeners, where it works to emulsify the various components (such as oils and conditioners) to improve the softening effect and reduce static electricity.
Uses:
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is an emulsifier produced by reacting oleic acid with sorbitol to yield a product which is reacted with ethylene oxide.
It is a nonionic, water-dispersible surface-active agent that is very soluble in water.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is also termed polysorbate 80.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in ice cream and frozen desserts for overrun and dryness; as a disperser of flavors and colors in pickles; and for volume and texture in baked goods.
It is frequently used with monoand diglycerides at usage levels ranging from 0.05 to 0.10%.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) has been used in a study to assess the potential application of niosomes for the delivery of ammonium glycyrrhizinate for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is a mid-range HLB, nonionic surfactant suggested for use in textile chemicals (lubricant, emulsifier), household products (o/w emulsifier) and cosmetic formulations (o/w emulsifier).
As an emulsifier in processed foods to blend ingredients that normally do not mix well, such as oils and water.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in items like ice cream, margarine, and salad dressings.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in creams, lotions, shampoos, and conditioners to help mix oil-based and water-based ingredients, enhancing texture and stability.
Acts as a solubilizer for essential oils and fragrances in products like perfumes and body sprays.
Employed in the formulation of injectables, topical creams, and oral suspensions where it helps to solubilize active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that are poorly water-soluble, improving their bioavailability.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used as a stabilizer in formulations containing both water and oil phases.
Found in agricultural chemicals, such as pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, to help emulsify the active ingredients, ensuring they are more effectively spread on plant surfaces.
Used in lubricants and polishes, especially in products requiring emulsification of oils and water to improve smoothness, stability, and performance.
Included in detergents, floor cleaners, and dishwashing liquids for emulsifying oils, greases, and other hydrophobic substances, enhancing cleaning power.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used to improve the solubility and bioavailability of lipophilic (poorly water-soluble) drugs, particularly in injectable formulations.
It helps in the dissolution and stabilization of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in liquid formulations.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is commonly used in the formulation of injectable drugs, including vaccines and intravenous (IV) fluids, to stabilize emulsions and prevent precipitation of drug substances.
Used in topical formulations, it helps emulsify oil and water phases, providing a smooth and consistent texture for creams, lotions, and ointments.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is widely used in cosmetic products like moisturizers, sunscreens, and anti-aging creams to ensure that water and oil components remain mixed and stable over time.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) helps in creating stable emulsions in shampoos, conditioners, and other hair care products, improving the uniform distribution of active ingredients.
It helps in dissolving oils and removing dirt from the skin without irritating, making it a common ingredient in makeup removers and cleansing wipes.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) stabilizes the active ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants, ensuring they are effective and evenly distributed.
In food products, it functions as an emulsifier to combine water and oil components, improving the texture and stability of dressings, mayonnaise, and ice cream.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in bakery products, beverages, and confectioneries to help prevent separation and improve product consistency.
It is used in the formulation of pesticides, helping to emulsify and evenly distribute the active ingredients across plant surfaces, ensuring better absorption and effectiveness.
In gene therapy research, it is used to facilitate the delivery of therapeutic genes to target cells by enhancing the solubility and stability of gene delivery vectors.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used in cleaning products like detergents to help dissolve oils and dirt and improve cleaning efficiency.
It can act as an emulsifier in the formulation of paints, inks, and coatings, improving the distribution of pigments and other ingredients.
In veterinary formulations, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is used as an emulsifier and solubilizer for drugs, particularly in injectable or topical medications for animals.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) can be used in environmental applications to aid in the breakdown and removal of contaminants in soil and water by improving the solubility and dispersion of remediation agents.
Safety Profile:
In some cases, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, especially when used in high concentrations or for prolonged periods.
Rarely, individuals may experience allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, or itching, particularly if they are sensitive to polyether compounds or oleic acid derivatives.
There have been isolated cases of contact dermatitis with prolonged use, especially in personal care products.
While generally recognized as safe in food and pharmaceutical formulations, ingestion of large quantities of Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) could potentially lead to gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
In the case of eye contact, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) can cause irritation.
It may lead to discomfort, redness, or mild to moderate eye irritation.
If the substance is aerosolized (inhaled as a fine mist or vapor), it could irritate the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a sore throat. However, inhalation exposure is unlikely under typical uses.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is biodegradable, there is still some concern about its potential ecotoxicity in large quantities.
It can have an impact on aquatic life, as surfactants can interfere with the ability of aquatic organisms to absorb oxygen, potentially leading to environmental contamination if released in high concentrations.
In large amounts, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) could contribute to water pollution by affecting water systems, particularly in industrial wastewaters or agricultural runoff.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is produced through a process called ethoxylation, which can result in trace contamination of byproducts, notably 1,4-dioxane.
Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) is a potential carcinogen and is regulated in many countries.
While Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) levels in Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) are typically low, it’s essential for manufacturers to minimize these residues during the purification process.
Some individuals may develop hypersensitivity to certain components of Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85), particularly in high concentrations or when used over extended periods.
This can lead to sensitization, causing more severe allergic reactions upon subsequent exposures.
In pharmaceutical or cosmetic formulations, excessive exposure to Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan trioleate (Polysorbate 85) could potentially cause toxicity, depending on the dose and frequency of use.
It’s important to adhere to regulated concentration levels.
