Sorbitol
What is Sorbitol?
Sorbitol is a hexahydric alcohol belonging to the polyhydric alcohol family, which includes ethylene glycol and glycerol at the lower end. Due to its chemical similarity to these alcohols, Sorbitol shares many physical properties and industrial applications.
Physical & Chemical Properties of Sorbitol
✔ Highly Soluble – Dissolves in water at 83 parts Sorbitol per 100 parts water (by weight).
✔ Higher Viscosity & Specific Gravity – A 70% Sorbitol solution is more viscous than glycerin at the same concentration.
✔ Stable & Non-Volatile – Retains its humectant properties even under heating, cooking, or evaporation.
✔ Non-Toxic & Non-Irritant – Unlike ethylene glycol, Sorbitol is completely safe for consumption and application.
✔ Mild, Sweet, & Cooling Taste – Provides sweetness without being overpowering.
✔ Resistant to Bacterial & Mould Growth – More stable than sugar, making it less prone to microbial degradation.
Chemical Reactivity & Industrial Compatibility
- Chemically Inert – Compatible with various chemical substances.
- Chelation Ability – Can bind iron, copper, and aluminum ions in aqueous solutions.
- Reacts to Form Important Compounds – Sorbitol undergoes oxidation, reduction, esterification, and etherification, producing key derivatives such as ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and sorbitan esters.
Applications of Sorbitol
🔹 Pharmaceuticals – Used in cough syrups, medicinal formulations, and oral care products like toothpaste.
🔹 Cosmetics & Personal Care – Acts as a humectant and conditioning agent in skincare and haircare.
🔹 Food Industry – Maintains freshness, softness, and flexibility in baked goods and confectionery.
🔹 Industrial Applications – Found in paints, coatings, and even cigarettes for moisture retention.
Packing
📦 300 kg HDPE/Steel Barrels
