Polysorbates
Ethoxylated sorbitan esters are obtained by the ethoxylation of sorbitan esters. They are more hydrophylic than the sorbitan esters themselves and are used as non-ionic emulsifiers and solubilising agents for water insoluble active products and essential oils. In combination with the non-ethoxylated sorbitan esters, they can be used as emulsifiers for oil in water emulsions. Ethoxylated sorbitan esters are used in cosmetics, detergents, lubricants and textile applications.