Other Names:
Emulgent, Surfactant, Lecithin, Polysorbate, Mono- and Diglycerides, Sorbitan Esters
Specification Summary
- Purity: 95–99.9% (varies by grade and application)
- Form: Liquid, powder, granules, or paste
- CAS No.: 58265-74-0
- Molecular Formula: C₂₁H₂₄O₇
- Molecular Weight: 388.41 g/mol
Product Description
Emulsifiers are typically clear to pale-yellow liquids, powders, or waxy solids, depending on the type. They are amphiphilic molecules with a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (oil-loving) tail, enabling them to reduce surface tension between immiscible liquids like oil and water. Most emulsifiers are non-corrosive, pH-neutral (6–8), and soluble in water, oils, or organic solvents based on their chemical structure. They exhibit low volatility and high thermal stability, making them suitable for diverse industrial processes.
Emulsifier Specification Table
Property | Value/Range | Notes |
Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid | Varies by type (e.g., powder) |
Molecular Weight | 388.41 g/mol | Example: Emulsifier OS |
Boiling Point | 643°C (predicted) | |
Density | 1.349 g/cm³ | |
Solubility | Water/oil-soluble | Depends on hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) |
pH (5% solution) | 6–8 | Neutral |
Flash Point | >100°C | Non-flammable in most grades |
Viscosity | 10–100 mPa·s (liquid forms) | |
Surface Tension Reduction | 30–50 mN/m | Critical for emulsion stability |
Hygroscopicity | Low to moderate |
Downloadable TDS:
A comprehensive Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is available for download, providing detailed mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties, as well as processing guidelines for polystyrene
Application Sectors and Industries of Emulsifier
Food & Beverage
Emulsifiers stabilize dressings, ice cream, and baked goods by preventing oil-water separation. They enhance texture in chocolates and extend shelf life in processed foods.
Pharmaceuticals
Used in tablets, syrups, and topical creams to improve drug solubility and delivery. They ensure uniform dispersion of active ingredients.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Form stable emulsions in lotions, creams, and shampoos. They improve product spreadability and moisture retention in skincare formulations.
Oilfield Chemicals
Act as wetting agents in drilling fluids and demulsifiers in crude oil processing. They optimize fluid viscosity and prevent equipment corrosion.
Agriculture
Emulsify pesticides and herbicides for even spray coverage. They enhance nutrient absorption in liquid fertilizers.
Paints & Coatings
Ensure uniform pigment dispersion in water-based paints. They improve drying time and reduce viscosity in industrial coatings.
Textiles
Serve as dye carriers and softening agents. They enhance fiber processing and reduce static in synthetic fabrics.
Plastics & Polymers
Stabilize polymer blends and improve mold release properties. Used in PVC, polyurethane foams, and biodegradable plastics.
Cleaning Products
Formulate detergents and degreasers by emulsifying oils. They enhance cleaning efficiency in household and industrial applications.
Construction
Improve workability in cement and asphalt emulsions. They act as air-entraining agents for durable concrete structures.
Packaging Types
- 25 kg Bags: For powdered emulsifiers, moisture-sealed for safe transport.
- 200 kg Drums: Steel or HDPE containers for liquid grades, ensuring leak-proof storage.
- IBC Totes (1,000 liters): Efficient for bulk handling in large-scale manufacturing.
- Flexitanks: For international shipments of non-hazardous liquid emulsifiers.
- Small Containers (1–5 kg): Lab-friendly packaging for R&D and specialty applications.
Emulsifiers are indispensable in modern industry, bridging oil and water phases to create stable, high-performance products. Their versatility spans food stability, drug delivery, cosmetic texture, and industrial efficiency. For formulation-specific data, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, request the downloadable TDS
