Product Overview

Tween 80 Extra Pure (CAS No. 9005-65-6), commonly known as polysorbate 80, is a nonionic polyoxyethylene sorbitan oleate surfactant containing hydrophilic polyoxyethylene groups and a lipophilic fatty-acid ester component. Commercial polysorbate 80 consists of a distribution of related ethoxylated sorbitan esters rather than a single discrete molecular species. Its amphiphilic character promotes wetting, dispersion, solubilization and the formation of oil-in-water emulsions in aqueous systems.

The Extra Pure grade is intended for routine laboratory formulation, preparation and general-purpose surfactant applications where controlled physicochemical behaviour is required. For this material, grade quality is appropriately characterized through surfactant-relevant parameters such as acid value, saponification value, water content, viscosity, refractive index and mass per unit volume rather than by a single assay percentage. Its water solubility and nonionic character make it useful for preparing homogeneous dispersions and incorporating hydrophobic materials into aqueous laboratory systems.

Typical Applications

• Preparation and stabilization of oil-in-water emulsions in laboratory formulation studies
• Solubilization of hydrophobic or sparingly water-soluble materials in aqueous preparations
• Wetting of powders and solid surfaces during laboratory dispersion procedures
• Preparation of aqueous dispersions and suspensions requiring a nonionic surface-active agent
• Laboratory evaluation of emulsification, solubilization and interfacial behaviour
• Preparation of surfactant-containing reagent and formulation systems
• Use in mixed-surfactant systems where a hydrophilic nonionic emulsifier is required

Common Synonyms

• Polysorbate 80
• Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monooleate
• Polyoxyethylene Sorbitan Monooleate
• POE (20) Sorbitan Monooleate
• Polysorbatum 80

Storage Conditions

Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place, protected from light and excessive heat. Minimize prolonged exposure to air during storage because polysorbate 80 can undergo oxidative change, including peroxide formation, particularly under elevated temperature or light exposure.