It is produced by the esterification reaction of oleic acid and sorbitol. In this reaction, the ring closure reaction in sorbitol also occurs. General Areas Of Use: Sorbitan monooleate is a nonionic surfactant. E494 (sorbitan monooleate) is a low HBL surfactant suggested for use as a w/o emulsifier or as o/w emulsifier for use in cosmetic formulations, oil field chemicals, plastics, household products, household, products, coatings and textiles. Sorbitan monooleate is well suited for a broad number of applications including as in emulsifıer in explosives. As emulsifıers, stabilizers, and thickeners in foods, cosmetics, and medicinal products. In the textile industry as fiber lubricants and softeners.