Sorbitan monostearate is an ester of sorbitan (a sorbitol derivative) and stearic acid and is sometimes referred to as a synthetic wax.[1]
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IUPAC name
1,4-Anhydro-D-glucitol 6-octadecanoate
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Systematic IUPAC name
(2R)-2-[(2R,3R,4S)-3,4-Dihydroxyoxolan-2-yl]-2-hydroxyethyl octadecanoate | |
Identifiers | |
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3D model (JSmol)
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ChemSpider |
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ECHA InfoCard | 100.014.241 |
E number | E491 (thickeners, ...) |
PubChem CID
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UNII |
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CompTox Dashboard (EPA)
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Properties | |
C24H46O6 | |
Molar mass | 430.62 g/mol |
Appearance | Waxy powder |
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
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Sorbitan monostearate is used in the manufacture of food and healthcare products as a non-ionic surfactant with emulsifying, dispersing, and wetting properties.[citation needed] It is also employed to create synthetic fibers, metal machining fluid, and as a brightener in the leather industry. Sorbitans are also known as "Spans".
Sorbitan monostearate has been approved by the European Union for use as a food additive (emulsifier) (E number: E 491).[2] It is also approved for use by the British Pharmacopoeia.[3]