Sorbitan

Sorbitan

Names
IUPAC name (3S)-2-(1,2-Dihydroxyethyl)tetrahydrofuran-3,4-diol
Identifiers
CAS Registry Number	12441-09-7
Jmol-3D images	Image
PubChem	103023
SMILES C1C([C@@H](C(O1)C(CO)O)O)O
UNII	6O92ICV9RU Y
Properties
Chemical formula	C6H12O5
Molar mass	164.16 g/mol
Appearance	colourless solid
Except where noted otherwise, data is given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C (77 °F), 100 kPa)
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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