For procurement managers and formulators across the chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries, sourcing high-quality Sorbitan Monooleate (Span 80, CAS 1338-43-8) is a critical step in ensuring product efficacy and consistency. Understanding how to select the right supplier and grade is essential for optimizing formulations and managing costs. As a leading manufacturer and supplier of Span 80 in China, we provide this guide to help you navigate the procurement process effectively.

Understanding Span 80: Grades and Specifications

Sorbitan Monooleate is valued for its properties as a nonionic surfactant, primarily as a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsifier, wetting agent, and dispersant. Key specifications that buyers should look for include:

  • Purity: The percentage of Sorbitan Monooleate and the absence of significant impurities are paramount, especially for pharmaceutical and food-grade applications.
  • HLB Value: While typically around 4.3, variations can affect performance. Consistency in HLB is crucial for predictable results.
  • Appearance and Viscosity: Typically an amber viscous liquid, consistency in these physical properties indicates product quality.
  • Acid Value, Saponification Value, Hydroxyl Value: These chemical parameters are indicators of the esterification degree and purity, essential for formulators.
  • Regulatory Compliance: For specific industries, certifications such as Kosher, Halal, or adherence to pharmacopoeias (USP/NF, Ph. Eur.) are mandatory.

Different grades of Span 80 are available, often tailored for specific industries:

  • Industrial Grade: Suitable for applications like paints, coatings, textiles, and lubricants where the highest purity may not be critical, but performance and cost-effectiveness are key.
  • Cosmetic Grade: Meets higher purity standards for skin contact and aesthetic properties in personal care products.
  • Food Grade: Complies with strict regulations for use in food and beverages, ensuring safety and quality.
  • Pharmaceutical Grade: The highest purity standard, often requiring compliance with multiple pharmacopoeias and rigorous quality control for use in drug formulations.

Key Considerations When Buying Span 80

When you decide to buy Sorbitan Monooleate, consider the following:

  1. Supplier Reliability: Choose manufacturers with a proven track record, consistent quality control, and transparent manufacturing processes. As a direct manufacturer in China, we pride ourselves on our reliability and quality assurance.
  2. Pricing and Volume: Obtain quotes for your required volumes. Direct sourcing from a factory often provides significant cost advantages, especially for bulk purchases. Be wary of unusually low prices that might indicate compromised quality.
  3. Technical Support and Documentation: A good supplier will provide comprehensive technical data sheets (TDS), safety data sheets (SDS), and certificates of analysis (CoA). They should also offer technical support to assist with formulation challenges.
  4. Lead Times and Logistics: Understand the typical lead times for production and shipping to ensure your supply chain remains uninterrupted.
  5. Sample Testing: Always request samples to test in your specific application before committing to a large order. This is a crucial step in validating product suitability.

Why Choose Us as Your Span 80 Supplier?

As a leading chemical manufacturer in China, we offer:

  • Direct Factory Pricing: Eliminate intermediaries and benefit from competitive pricing by buying directly from our production facility.
  • Stringent Quality Control: We implement robust quality management systems to ensure our Span 80 meets or exceeds industry standards for various grades.
  • Comprehensive Product Information: We provide readily available TDS, SDS, and CoA upon request.
  • Responsive Customer Service: Our dedicated team is ready to assist with inquiries, sample requests, and order processing.
  • Global Reach: We have experience supplying Span 80 to clients worldwide, understanding various logistical and regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

Procuring Sorbitan Monooleate requires a careful evaluation of product specifications, supplier reputation, and cost-effectiveness. By understanding the different grades and prioritizing reliable manufacturers, you can secure a high-quality ingredient that drives the success of your formulations. We encourage you to buy Span 80 directly from our factory to experience the benefits of quality, reliability, and competitive pricing. Contact us today to discuss your specific sourcing needs and to request a sample.