Surfactants
REACH
Polysorbate 40
CAS Number
9005-66-7
EC Number
618-421-9
E Number
E434
What is Polysorbate 40?
Polysorbate 40 (CAS 9005-66-7), also identified as E434 in food regulatory frameworks, is a polyoxyethylene sorbitan ester derived from palmitic acid.
Where is Polysorbate 40 used?
- Food: emulsifier in fat-containing products such as ice cream, baked goods and salad dressings
- Pharmaceuticals: solubilizer for poorly water-soluble actives in oral liquids, topical preparations and injectables
- Personal care: emulsion stabiliser in creams and lotions
- Industrial cleaning: dispersant for hydrophobic soils in aqueous concentrates
- It functions as a nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer in manufacturing.
Commercial specifications
- Standard grades: food-grade, USP/NF, Ph. Eur.
- Bulk supply: drums and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs)
Other Names (Synonyms)
Sorbitan, monohexadecanoate, poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs.|Sorbitan, monopalmitate, polyoxyethylene derivs.|Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monopalmitate|Tween 40|E434
What are the physical properties of Polysorbate 40?
Melting Point 0.1 °C
Boiling Point 797.89°C (rough estimate)
Density 1.10 g/cm³
Flash Point >230 °F
Appearance Yellow to amber liquid
Color Light yellow to Yellow to Orange
Form viscous liquid
Water Solubility 100 g/L
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.47(lit.)
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Polysorbate 40?
HS Code 34021300
Storage Class 10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany) 1