Sorbitan Tristearate
Sorbitan Tristearate (STS) is a non-ionic sorbitan ester. It is a very low-HLB emulsifier, dispersant and stabiliser, commonly used in oil-rich systems where strong fat/oil compatibility, structure and water-in-oil emulsification are required.
With an HLB of approximately 2.1, STS is more lipophilic than Sorbitan Monostearate, making it particularly suited to fat-based systems, wax emulsions and water-in-oil formulations. It is typically supplied as off-white waxy solid pastilles.
Product Information
Chemical family: Sorbitan fatty acid ester / stearate ester
Chemical name: Sorbitan Tristearate
Common name: STS / Span 65 type
INCI name: Sorbitan Tristearate
Type: Non-ionic surfactant / very low-HLB emulsifier
Appearance: Cream to off-white waxy solid / flakes / pastilles
HLB: 2.1
Solubility: Oil-dispersible with limited water solubility
Packaging: Bags / Drums / IBC / Bulk, depending on grade and supply form
Main functions
Water-in-oil emulsification
Supports the formation and stability of W/O emulsions
Fat and oil stabilisation
Helps stabilise fat-based and oil-rich formulations
Dispersion
Supports the dispersion of waxes, oils, pigments, fillers and hydrophobic ingredients
Co-emulsification
Can be used with higher-HLB emulsifiers to adjust emulsifier balance
Structuring / consistency control
Helps deliver homogenous, stable formulations
Process aid
Can support processing in food, cosmetic and industrial systems
Typical Uses by Industry
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Used as a non-ionic emulsifier and co-emulsifier in hair products, creams, lotions, balms, ointments, sticks and water-in-oil systems
Helps improve texture, body, stability and spreadability
Particularly suitable for oil-rich and wax-containing formulations
Industrial & Technical
Suitable for wax emulsions, polishes, coatings, release agents and process chemicals
Used where very low-HLB emulsification, dispersion and fat/oil compatibility are required
Helps stabilise hydrophobic components in oil-continuous systems
Plastics & Polymers
Used as a dispersing aid, lubricant and processing aid in selected polymer systems
Can support dispersion of fillers, pigments and additives
Textiles
Used as an emulsifier, softener, lubricant and processing aid in textile formulations
Helps disperse waxes and oils used in fibre and fabric treatment