Polysorbate 20

Polysorbate 20

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Chemical structure of Polysorbate 20

Polysorbate 20, also known as Tween 20, is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from polyethoxylated sorbitan and lauric acid. It is commonly used in the formulation of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food products due to its ability to stabilize emulsions and enhance solubility.

Chemical Properties

Polysorbate 20 is a polyoxyethylene derivative of sorbitan monolaurate. It is characterized by its hydrophilic and lipophilic balance, which allows it to act as an effective emulsifier. The chemical formula of Polysorbate 20 is C₅₈H₁₁₄O₂₆.

Applications

Pharmaceuticals

In the pharmaceutical industry, Polysorbate 20 is used as an excipient in the formulation of injectable drugs, vaccines, and biopharmaceuticals. It helps to improve the solubility of active pharmaceutical ingredients and stabilize protein formulations.

Cosmetics

Polysorbate 20 is widely used in cosmetic products such as creams, lotions, and shampoos. It acts as an emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients, and as a solubilizer for essential oils and fragrances.

Food Industry

In the food industry, Polysorbate 20 is used as an emulsifier in products like ice cream, salad dressings, and sauces. It helps to maintain the texture and consistency of these products by preventing the separation of oil and water phases.

Safety and Regulation

Polysorbate 20 is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food products. However, it is important to adhere to regulatory guidelines regarding its concentration and usage in various applications.

Related Pages

• Polysorbate 80
• Emulsifier
• Surfactant
• Sorbitan