Sorbitan

Sorbitan
IUPAC name (3S)-2-(1,2-Dihydroxyethyl)tetrahydrofuran-3,4-diol
Identifiers
CAS number	12441-09-7
PubChem	103023
	UNII	6O92ICV9RU Y
Jmol-3D images	{{#if:C1C([C@@H](C(O1)C(CO)O)O)O|Image 1
SMILES C1C([C@@H](C(O1)C(CO)O)O)O
Properties
Molecular formula	C6H12O5
Molar mass	164.16 g/mol
Appearance	colourless solid
Y (verify) (what is: Y/N?) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C (77 °F), 100 kPa)
Infobox references

Sorbitan is a mixture of isomeric organic compounds derived from the dehydration of sorbitol. The mixture can vary, but usually consists of 1,4-anhydrosorbitol, 1,5-anhydrosorbitol and 1,4,3,6-dianhydrosorbitol.^[1] Sorbitan is primarily used in the production of surfactants such as polysorbates. Sorbitan is an intermediate in the conversion of sorbitol to isosorbide.^[2]

Sorbitan esters ( also known as Spans ) are lipophilic nonionic surfactants that are used as emulsifying agents in the preparation of emulsions, creams, and ointments for pharmaceutical and cosmetic use. When used alone they produce stable water-in-oil emulsions but they are frequently used with a polysorbate in varying proportions to produce water-in-oil or oil-in-water emulsions or creams with a variety of different textures and consistencies. Sorbitan esters are also used as emulsifiers and stabilisers in food. ^[3]

References