Surfactants
REACH
Sorbitan monopalmitate
CAS Number
26266-57-9
EC Number
247-568-8
E Number
E495
What is Sorbitan monopalmitate?
Sorbitan monopalmitate (CAS 26266-57-9), also marketed as Span 40 and approved as E495, is a non-ionic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and palmitic acid.
Where is Sorbitan monopalmitate used?
- Food: emulsifier in bakery shortenings and margarine
- Confectionery: improves texture consistency and shelf stability in coatings
- Pharmaceutical: incorporated into topical creams and ointment bases
- Personal care: stabilizes lotions and conditioning treatments
- Textile and fiber processing: lubricating and dispersing agent in fiber finishing
- It stabilizes oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions.
Good to know: Formulators select it for its mid-range HLB value, positioning it between shorter and longer-chain sorbitan esters for targeted emulsion control.
Commercial specifications
- Food-grade (E495-compliant) and pharmaceutical-grade specifications meeting USP and Ph. Eur. standards
Other Names (Synonyms)
Span 40|sorbitan palmitate|Arlacel 40|Palmitate de sorbitan|Sorbitani palmitas|INS NO.495|INS-495|77K6Z421KU|E495
What are the physical properties of Sorbitan monopalmitate?
Melting Point 47 °C
Boiling Point 444.68°C (rough estimate)
Density 1.0412 (rough estimate)
Flash Point >230 °F
Appearance Beads
Color White flakes
Form Solid
Water Solubility Insoluble in water
Refractive Index 1.4593 (estimate)
Log P 5.404 (est)
How is Sorbitan monopalmitate classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H335 May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary Statements
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Sorbitan monopalmitate?
HS Code 29400090
WGK (Germany) 1