Sorbitan

Sorbitan

Names
IUPAC name (3S)-2-(1,2-Dihydroxyethyl)tetrahydrofuran-3,4-diol
Identifiers
CAS Number	12441-09-7 Y
Jmol interactive 3D	Image
PubChem	103023
UNII	6O92ICV9RU Y
SMILES C1C([C@@H](C(O1)C(CO)O)O)O
Properties
Chemical formula	C6H12O5
Molar mass	164.16 g/mol
Appearance	colourless solid
Except where otherwise noted, data are 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]

Esters

Sorbitan esters (also known as Spans) are 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]

• Sorbitan esters (Spans)
• 

  Sorbitan monostearate (Span 60, E number: E491)

• 

  Sorbitan tristearate (Span 65, E number: E492)

• 

  Sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20, E number: E493)

References