Product: Tween 60
Rchem Tween 60 is a high-purity, non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier, presented as a viscous, pale yellow to amber liquid or semi-gel at room temperature. Chemically known as Polysorbate 60, it is a polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid ester derived from stearic acid. Renowned for its exceptional hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB value of approximately 14.9), it is a cornerstone ingredient in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries for producing stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, solubilizing fragrances, and improving the texture and stability of creams, lotions, and ice creams.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
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VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does the "Tween" name mean, and how is Tween 60 different from other Tweens?
Tween" is a registered trade name for Polysorbate emulsifiers. The number indicates the type of fatty acid used: Tween 20 – Lauric acid (C12) – HLB 16.7 – Best for solubilizing (clear solutions) Tween 40 – Palmitic acid (C16) – HLB 15.6 – General purpose Tween 60 – Stearic acid (C18) – HLB 14.9 – Best for creamy O/W emulsions (lotions, creams) Tween 80 – Oleic acid (C18:1, unsaturated) – HLB 15.0 – Best for solubilizing and for liquid oils Tween 60 is preferred for rich, creamy emulsions (lotions, creams, sunscreens) where a thicker consistency and higher stability are desired.
While Tween 60 can be used alone as an O/W emulsifier, it is often paired with Span 60 (sorbitan monostearate, HLB 4.7) to create a more stable and optimized emulsion system. The combination allows you to achieve the required HLB (Required HLB) of the oil phase. By blending Tween 60 and Span 60 in different ratios, you can match the exact HLB value needed for your specific oil phase, resulting in superior stability, viscosity, and texture
Do I need to use Tween 60 with a co-emulsifier like Span 60?
In food products, Tween 60 (Polysorbate 60) serves multiple functions: Ice Cream & Frozen Desserts: Improves overrun (air incorporation), provides a smoother texture, slows meltdown, and enhances creaminess. Baked Goods: Acts as a dough conditioner, improves volume and texture, and extends shelf life. Non-Dairy Creamers: Stabilizes emulsions and prevents oil separation. Salad Dressings: Emulsifies oil and vinegar to create stable, pourable dressings. It is approved for food use under FDA regulations (21 CFR 172.836).
How is Tween 60 used in food applications?
Yes, Tween 60 is widely considered safe for topical use in cosmetics and personal care products. It has been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel and is classified as safe at current usage concentrations. It is also approved for use in pharmaceuticals and food products (GRAS – Generally Recognized as Safe). However, it may cause mild irritation in very high concentrations and is generally recommended for use at 0.5-5.0% in leave-on products.
Is Tween 60 safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products?
Handling: Tween 60 is a viscous liquid (or semi-gel at room temperature). It may require gentle warming (30-40°C / 86-104°F) to reduce viscosity for easier pouring and handling. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves and safety goggles. Formulation: Tween 60 should be incorporated into the oil or water phase depending on the desired HLB and formulation technique. For O/W emulsions, it is typically added to the oil phase or pre-mixed with the oil phase before emulsification. Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed containers to prevent moisture absorption. Avoid excessive heat (store below 40°C / 104°F). Protect from freezing. Shelf life is typically 24-36 months under proper storage. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive handling, safety, and first-aid information.
