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Sorbitan monopalmitate

CAS Number
26266-57-9
EC Number
247-568-8
Chemical Formula
C22H42O6
Molecular Weight
402.6 g/mol

Description

Sorbitan monopalmitate (CAS 26266-57-9 ), commercially recognized as Span 40 and approved as E495 , is a non-ionic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and palmitic acid. It stabilizes oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions across food, pharmaceutical, and personal care manufacturing. Formulators select it for its mid-range HLB value, which positions it between shorter and longer-chain sorbitan esters for targeted emulsion control. In food production, E495 functions as an emulsifier in bakery shortenings and margarine. It is also used in confectionery coatings to improve texture consistency and shelf stability. Pharmaceutical manufacturers incorporate it into topical creams and ointment bases where controlled water-oil balance is critical to product performance. Personal care formulators use it to stabilize lotions and conditioning treatments, particularly where a waxy, skin-feel emulsifier is preferred over lighter alternatives. In textile and fiber processing, it acts as a lubricating agent. It serves as a dispersing agent applied during fiber finishing operations. Sorbitan monopalmitate is supplied as a cream to tan-colored waxy solid, typically in flake or bead form for easy handling in industrial settings. It is available in food-grade (E495-compliant) and pharmaceutical-grade specifications meeting USP and Ph. Eur. standards. Technical-grade material is also offered for industrial textile and paper applications. Contact us for supply of Sorbitan monopalmitate Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

Span 40 | sorbitan palmitate | Arlacel 40 | Palmitate de sorbitan | Sorbitani palmitas | INS NO.495 | INS-495 | 77K6Z421KU | E495

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point47 °C
Boiling Point444.68°C (rough estimate)
Density1.0412 (rough estimate)
Flash Point>230 °F
AppearanceBeads
ColorWhite flakes
FormSolid
Water SolubilityInsoluble in water
Refractive Index1.4593 (estimate)
Log P5.404 (est)

Safety & Handling

Warning
GHS07· Irritant

Hazard Statements

H315Causes skin irritation
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H335May cause respiratory irritation

Precautionary Statements

P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29400090
WGK (Germany)1