Span 80 monooleato de sorbitano, also known as monooleate of sorbitan or sorbitan monooleate, is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier. It is part of a family of compounds called sorbitan esters. Span 80 is commonly used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and chemicals, for its emulsifying and dispersing properties.
Here are some of its key characteristics and uses:
- Emulsification: Span 80 is known for its ability to create stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. It can help mix immiscible substances like oil and water, making it valuable in the formulation of creams, lotions, and other emulsion-based products.
- Stabilization: This surfactant helps prevent the separation of different phases in emulsions, thereby improving the shelf life and consistency of products.
- Food Industry: Span 80 is used in the food industry to create stable emulsions in products such as salad dressings, ice cream, and baked goods.
- Pharmaceuticals: It can be found in pharmaceutical formulations to improve the solubility and bioavailability of certain drugs.
- Cosmetics: In cosmetics and personal care products, Span 80 is used to create stable emulsions in creams, lotions, and makeup products.
- Industrial Applications: Span 80 has applications in various industrial processes, including the production of plastics, textiles, and lubricants.
The “monooleate” part of the name indicates that it is derived from oleic acid, which is a common fatty acid found in many vegetable oils. Span 80 is typically produced by esterifying sorbitan with oleic acid. Its properties make it a versatile ingredient in many formulations where emulsification and stabilization are required.