Sorbitan monooleate (Span 80) is a nonionic emulsifier with a low HLB value, making it suitable for stabilizing water-in-oil systems. It is used across food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications to support uniform dispersion, improve stability, and maintain consistency during processing and storage. Due to its proven performance, Sorbitan monooleate (Span 80) is commonly selected by manufacturers for applications where consistent texture and phase stability are critical.
PHYSICAL / CHEMICAL SPECIFICATION
Color & Appearance: Yellow Viscous Oily Clear Liquid
Assay (Polyols): 25-31%
Assay (Fatty Acids): 72-78%
Acid Value: Max. 8 mgKOH/g
Saponification Value: 145-160 mgKOH/g
Iodine Value: 62-76
Hydroxyl Value: 193-210 mgKOH/g
Moisture Content: Max. 1%
HLB Value: 4.8
Oleic Acid Content: Min. 58%
HEAVY METALS
Heavy Metals (As Pb): Max. 10g/kg
Arsenic: Max. 3mg/kg
Mercury: Max. 1mg/kg
Cadmium: Max. 1mg/kg
SPAN 80 APPLICATIONS
Used in emulsion explosives, pigments, wetting agents for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and others.
STORAGE / SHELF LIFE
Store in a cool and dry place, 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. 12 Months from the date of manufacturing.
PACKING
200 kg HDPE Drums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sorbitan Monooleate, commonly sold under the trade name Span 80, is a nonionic emulsifier with a low HLB value. It appears as a yellow, viscous, oily clear liquid and contains a minimum of 58 percent oleic acid.
With an HLB value of 4.8, Sorbitan Monooleate sits on the lower end of the HLB scale, reflecting its more lipophilic character. This is what makes Span 80 effective at stabilizing water-in-oil emulsions rather than oil-in-water ones.
Span 80 is used across food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications, including emulsion explosives, pigments, and wetting agent formulations, where it supports uniform dispersion and consistent phase stability.
Sorbitan Monooleate, or Span 80, is supplied in 200 kg HDPE drums and carries a shelf life of 12 months from the date of manufacturing when stored in a cool, dry place between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius.
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