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Polysorbate 20 ( TWEEN 20 )

Polysorbate 20 is a chemical compound and a type of nonionic surfactant, which means it helps to reduce the surface tension between different liquids or between a liquid and a solid. Because of this property, it is used as an emulsifier, a solubilizer, and a wetting agent in a wide variety of applications.

GENOME SPECIALITIES FZC, Poly Sorbate stock availability in UAE

Packing: 200kg Drums,  available in stocks

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Description

Genome Specialities FZC  is a trusted supplier, and exporter of Polysorbate 20 (Polyoxyethylene (20) Sorbitan Monolaurate), a versatile non-ionic surfactant, emulsifier, solubilizer, and wetting agent widely used across cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. Thanks to its excellent emulsification and solubilization properties, Polysorbate 20 effectively blends oil-based and water-based ingredients, ensuring superior product stability and performance.

Polysorbate 20 is a clear to pale yellow viscous liquid derived from the ethoxylation of sorbitan monolaurate with approximately 20 units of ethylene oxide.

Moreover, it offers outstanding water solubility, low toxicity, and excellent chemical stability, making it a preferred ingredient in numerous formulations.


Chemical Properties of Polysorbate 20

Property Description
Chemical name Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate
INCI name Polysorbate 20
Chemical class Non-ionic surfactant
Molecular formula Approx. C₅₈H₁₁₄O₂₆
Molecular weight ~1227 g/mol (average)
Origin Ethoxylated sorbitan ester of lauric acid
Physical appearance Clear to pale yellow viscous liquid
Odor Mild, characteristic
Water solubility Completely soluble
Oil solubility Poor
HLB value ~16.7
Ionic nature Non-ionic
pH (5% aqueous solution) 5.0–7.0
Density (25 °C) ~1.08 g/cm³
Viscosity (25 °C) High (syrupy liquid)
Melting point Liquid at room temperature
Flash point >100 °C
Chemical stability Stable under normal storage conditions
pH stability range 3–10
Reactivity Chemically inert
Toxicity Low
Regulatory status Approved for cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical use

Uses and Applications 

Applications of Polysorbate 20

Cosmetic & Personal Care Industry

Polysorbate 20 is extensively used in cosmetic formulations because it effectively emulsifies oils and water. As a result, manufacturers achieve smoother, more stable products.

Applications include:

  • Lotions and creams
  • Facial cleansers
  • Shampoos and conditioners
  • Body washes
  • Perfumes and fragrances
  • Room and linen sprays
  • Foundations and mascaras

Food Industry

In food processing, Polysorbate 20 functions as a highly effective emulsifier and stabilizer.

Poly Sorbate 20 enhances texture, consistency, and product shelf life.

Applications include:

  • Ice cream
  • Salad dressings
  • Sauces and mayonnaise
  • Cake mixes
  • Baked goods
  • Whipped toppings
  • Frostings

Pharmaceutical Industry

Pharmaceutical manufacturers rely on Polysorbate 20 as a multifunctional excipient.

Poly sorbate 20  helps stabilize sensitive formulations and improve product performance.

Applications include:

  • Injectable formulations
  • Oral suspensions
  • Ophthalmic solutions
  • Vaccines
  • Protein-based therapeutics
  • Drug delivery systems

Laboratory & Industrial Applications

Polysorbate 20 is used in research laboratories and industrial processes due to its reliable surfactant properties

Applications include:

  • ELISA testing
  • Western blot analysis
  • Cell culture media
  • Cell lysis buffers
  • Cleaning formulations
  • Industrial wetting agents

Grades of polysorbate 20:

Available Grades of Poly Sorbate 20 are mentioned below.

Pharmaceutical Grade

Manufactured according to stringent USP, EP, and JP standards. Ideal for vaccines, biologics, injectable products, and advanced pharmaceutical formulations.

Food Grade

Complies with food safety regulations and is suitable for emulsification and stabilization in processed food products.

Cosmetic Grade

Designed for personal care formulations requiring excellent emulsification, fragrance solubilization, and product stability.

Technical / Industrial Grade

Recommended for laboratory, industrial, and cleaning applications where high purity pharmaceutical standards are not required.

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