Sorbitan Monopalmitate
(sor' bi tan mon'' oh pal' mi tate).

[Graphic formula same as for Sorbitan Monolaurate, except that R is (C15H31)COO.]
Sorbitan, esters, monohexadecanoate.
Sorbitan monopalmitate [26266-57-9].
» Sorbitan Monopalmitate is a partial ester of palmitic acid with Sorbitol and its mono- and dianhydrides. It yields, upon saponification, not less than 63.0 percent and not more than 71.0 percent of fatty acids, and not less than 32.0 percent and not more than 38.0 percent of polyols (w/w).
Packaging and storage— Preserve in well-closed containers.
USP Reference standards 11
USP Isosorbide RS Click to View Structure
USP 1,4-Sorbitan RS Click to View Structure
    C6H12O5     164.16
Identification—
A: The residue of palmitic acid obtained in the Assay for fatty acids has an acid value (see Fats and Fixed Oils 401) between 210 and 225, about 1 g of the residue, accurately weighed, being used, and an iodine value (see Fats and Fixed Oils 401) of not more than 4.
B: It responds to Identification test B under Sorbitan Monooleate.
Acid value 401: not more than 8.
Hydroxyl value 401: between 275 and 305.
Saponification value 401: between 140 and 150.
Water, Method I 921: not more than 1.5%.
Residue on ignition 281: not more than 0.5%.
Heavy metals, Method II 231: not more than 0.001%.
Assay for fatty acids— Transfer about 10 g of Sorbitan Monopalmitate, accurately weighed, to a 500-mL conical flask, cautiously add 100 mL of alcohol and 3.0 g of potassium hydroxide, and mix. Proceed as directed in the Assay for fatty acids under Sorbitan Monooleate, beginning with “Connect a suitable condenser.”
Assay for polyols— Proceed with Sorbitan Monopalmitate as directed for Assay for polyols under Sorbitan Monooleate.
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USP35–NF30 Page 1964