HPLC Analysis of Polysorbate in Mixture with Amino Acids and Sugar

Polysorbates are a class of emulsifiers widely used in pharmaceuticals, food products, and cosmetics, particularly for solubilizing essential oils into water-based formulations. These compounds are oily liquids derived from PEG-ylated sorbitan (a derivative of sorbitol) that has been esterified with fatty acids. In contrast, similar surfactants made from non-PEG-ylated sorbitan esters are typically referred to as Span.

Quantitative analysis of various polysorbate types—such as Polysorbate 20 (Tween 20), Polysorbate 40, Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60), and Polysorbate 80—is often necessary in product formulations. These substances exist as complex mixtures of oligomers, making their analysis challenging.

The Zodiac HST RP mixed-mode column offers effective retention and separation of these compounds, utilizing a combination of reversed-phase and ion-exchange mechanisms. This method is suitable for HPLC-based quantification of polysorbates in various complex matrices.