설명(영) |
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Sorbitan Derivatives are the Ethers and/or Esters of Sorbitan. Sorbitan has the following structure:
It is a heterocyclic ether formed by dehydration of Sorbitol. The remaining four hydroxyl groups can be ethoxylated and/or esterified with Fatty Acids. Esterification with a fatty acid derivative normally yields the ester at the terminal (primary) alcohol group (e.g., Sorbitan Oleate); further acylation yields di- and other esters which are additionally and randomly esterified (e.g., Sorbitan Sesquistearate).
Ethoxylation of Sorbitan results in a polyalkoxylated derivative which still possesses four hydroxyl groups. Esterification provides esters which include polysorbates (e.g., Polysorbate 20) and PEG-sorbitan derivatives (e.g., PEG-5 Sorbitan Isostearate).
Sorbitan esters are water insoluble, while the polysorbates are water soluble. The Sorbitan Derivatives as a class are excellent emulsifiers, stabilizers, and suspending agents; they find wide use in the cosmetic, drug, and food industry. |