Description

Sorbitan Stearate is a non-ionic surfactant derived from the esterification of sorbitol and stearic acid. This versatile compound is valued for its excellent emulsifying, stabilizing, and conditioning properties across a wide range of industrial formulations. It is a critical ingredient for manufacturers in the personal care, food, pharmaceutical, and chemical processing sectors seeking reliable performance and regulatory compliance.

Application

• Cosmetics & Personal Care: A key emulsifier and opacifier in creams, lotions, and makeup, providing stable emulsions and a smooth, luxurious texture.
• Food Industry: Used as an emulsifier (E491) in baked goods, confectionery, and whipped toppings to improve texture, volume, and shelf life.
• Pharmaceuticals: Serves as an emulsifying and solubilizing agent in topical ointments, creams, and lotions, aiding in drug delivery and formulation stability.
• Industrial Applications: Acts as an emulsifier and anti-static agent in textile processing, leather finishing, and as a component in pesticide and herbicide formulations.
• Plastics & Polymers: Functions as an internal and external lubricant and anti-static agent in PVC and other polymer processing.

Basic Information

Product Name	Sorbitan Stearate
CAS No.	56451-84-4
Molecular Formula	C24H46O6
Molecular Weight	430.62 g/mol
Synonyms	Sorbitan monostearate; Span 60; E491; Anhydrosorbitol stearate; Sorbitan, monooctadecanoate; (R)-2-[(2R,3R,4S)-3,4-dihydroxyoxolan-2-yl]-2-hydroxyethyl octadecanoate; SMS
EINECS	260-203-3

Quality Control

Our Sorbitan Stearate is manufactured under a strict quality management system. Each batch is tested to ensure it meets relevant specifications for food grade (FCC), pharmaceutical (USP/NF), or cosmetic applications. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing purity, identity, and physical parameters is provided with every shipment to guarantee traceability and compliance.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at room temperature (15-25°C). This product is hygroscopic (moisture-sensitive); the container must be kept tightly sealed to prevent absorption of atmospheric moisture, which can affect product performance.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	White to cream-colored waxy solid
Identification (IR)	Conforms
Assay (Sorbitan Esters)	95.0 - 102.0%
Acid Value	≤ 10 mg KOH/g
Saponification Value	147 - 157 mg KOH/g
Hydroxyl Value	235 - 260 mg KOH/g
Water Content	≤ 1.5%
Residue on Ignition	≤ 0.5%
Heavy Metals (as Pb)	≤ 10 ppm

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.