Span 20

Synonym(s):Sorbitan laurate;Sorbitan monolaurate;Sorbitan monolaurate, Sorbitan monododecanoate;Span 20

CAS NO.：1338-39-2
Empirical Formula: C18H34O6
Molecular Weight: 346.46
MDL number: MFCD00005365
EINECS: 215-663-3
SAFETY DATA SHEET (SDS)
Update Date: 2026-04-24 14:58:22

What is Span 20?

Chemical properties

Brownish-yellow, viscous liquid.

The Uses of Span 20

Span 20 has been used in a study to assess enhanced solubility and oral bioavailability of itraconazole. It has also been used in a study to investigate the oxidation of unsaturated lipids in oil-in-water emulsions.

The Uses of Span 20

Lonzest(R) SML is used as a lubricant and as an emulsifier.

The Uses of Span 20

sorbitan laurate is an emulsifier in cosmetic creams and lotions as well as a stabilizer of essential oils in water.

The Uses of Span 20

Sorbitan Monolaurate is a detergent and monoester of lauric acid and hexitol anhydrides derived from sorbitol.

What are the applications of Application

Sorbitan monolaurate is a detergent and monoester of lauric acid and hexitol anhydrides derived from sorbitol

brand name

Span 20 (ICI Americas).

General Description

Span 20 is a co-surfactant.

Safety Profile

Slightly toxic by ingestion. Questionable carcinogen with experimental neoplastigenic data. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.

Properties of Span 20

Boiling point:	401.18°C (rough estimate)
Density	1.032 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)
vapor pressure	<1.3 hPa (20 °C)
refractive index	n20/D 1.474(lit.)
Flash point:	>230 °F
storage temp.	Store below +30°C.
solubility	Practically insoluble, but dispersible in water, miscible with alcohol.
form	Liquid
color	Clear amber colour
Specific Gravity	1.032
Water Solubility	Soluble in 2-ethoxyethanol, ethanol and methanol. Not miscible or difficult to mix in water.
Merck	14,8724
Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB)	8.6
CAS DataBase Reference	1338-39-2(CAS DataBase Reference)
EPA Substance Registry System	Sorbitan monolaurate (1338-39-2)