Sorbitan Monostearate from TCI is a sorbitan ester of stearic acid, also widely known as Span 60. It is a nonionic surfactant that is very commonly used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and polymer formulations. In the laboratory, Sorbitan Monostearate is used to prepare emulsions, to form nonionic vesicles, and as an additive that improves the surface and processing properties of polymer materials. It plays an important role in research that requires stable dispersion systems.
Its long, saturated stearate chain makes this material lipophilic, and it is generally a waxy solid at room temperature. Because of this, Span 60 is often chosen to produce more robust emulsion structures and vesicle membranes that are tighter and less leaky. As a nonionic surfactant, it is relatively unaffected by salts and by pH within a reasonable range. The saturated chain also makes it more resistant to oxidation than oleate esters, so it suits processes that involve heating or long-term storage.
In Indonesia, Span 60 is one of the favorite materials in niosome research and in topical preparation studies at pharmacy faculties. Research groups working on drug delivery systems, creams, ointments, and other semisolid dosage forms use it to build stable emulsions and vesicular carriers. It is also relevant to materials science and polymer laboratories that study how additives change the surface behavior and processability of polymer materials, as well as to food and cosmetic formulation work.
TCI brochures (PDF)
- Polymer Additives 2026-04-16 · p. 12
Related TCI products
- TCI T0545 9005-67-8 Polyoxyethylene Sorbitan Monostearate
- TCI P0723 9004-99-3 Polyethylene Glycol Monostearate (n=approx. 55) (palmitate and stearate mixture)
- TCI P0722 9004-99-3 Polyethylene Glycol Monostearate (n=approx. 45) (palmitate and stearate mixture)
- TCI P0721 9004-99-3 Polyethylene Glycol Monostearate (n=approx. 40) (palmitate and stearate mixture)
- TCI P0720 9004-99-3 Polyethylene Glycol Monostearate (n=approx. 25) (palmitate and stearate mixture)
- TCI P0719 9004-99-3 Polyethylene Glycol Monostearate (n=approx. 10) (palmitate and stearate mixture)
- Niosome preparation: its lipophilic saturated stearate chain helps form tighter, less leaky nonionic vesicle membranes, which is why it is widely used in vesicular drug delivery research.
- Emulsion formulation: as a nonionic emulsifier and stabilizer, it helps produce more robust emulsion structures for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food formulation studies that require stable dispersions.
- Topical preparation research: pharmacy laboratories use it in creams and other semisolid preparations because it stabilizes emulsions and is relatively unaffected by salts and moderate pH changes.
- Polymer additive studies: it serves as an additive that improves the surface and processing properties of polymer materials, supporting research in materials science and macromolecule formulation.
- Heat-involving or long-term stability work: its saturated chain makes it more resistant to oxidation than oleate esters, making it suitable for heated processes and extended storage studies.
| Brand | TCI |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 1338-41-6 |
| Molecular formula | — |
| Purity | — |
| Category | Materials Science > Polymer/Macromolecule Reagents > Polymer Additives |
| Pack sizes | Available in TCI's standard pack sizes; please confirm the current options with our team |
| Physical form | Generally a waxy solid at room temperature |
| Storage | Keep in a tightly closed original container in a cool, dry place; follow the label and Safety Data Sheet |
Store Sorbitan Monostearate in its original, tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong oxidizing agents. Glass or compatible plastic containers with secure closures are suitable if the material has to be transferred. Close the container promptly after use to prevent moisture uptake and contamination. Handle the material following good laboratory practice: wear safety glasses, gloves, and a lab coat, avoid creating or inhaling dust, and wash your hands after handling. Always check the product label and the TCI Safety Data Sheet for the recommended storage conditions and hazard information before use.
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