1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is a long-chain fatty alcohol commonly used as an emollient, thickener, stabilizer, and consistency agent in cosmetic, personal care, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) helps improve texture, viscosity, spreadability, and product stability in creams, lotions, ointments, conditioners, and wax-based systems.
Due to its waxy structure and good formulation compatibility, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is valued in emulsions, surfactant blends, lubricants, coatings, and specialty chemical applications.
CAS Number: 112-92-5
EC Number: 204-017-6
Molecular Formula: C18H38O
Molecular Weight: 270.50 g/mol
Synonyms: Stearyl alcohol, 1-OCTADECANOL, Octadecan-1-ol, 112-92-5, 1-Hydroxyoctadecane, Octadecyl alcohol, n-Octadecanol, Stearol, Stearic alcohol, n-Octadecyl alcohol, Atalco S, n-1-Octadecanol, Steraffine, Alfol 18, Sipol S, Alcohol stearylicus, Polaax, Stenol, Crodacol-S, Siponol S, Siponol SC, Aldol 62, Lanol S, Adol 68, Decyl octyl alcohol, Cachalot S-43, Lorol 28, Dytol E-46, Usp xiii stearyl alcohol, Octadecylalkohol, C18 alcohol, Rita SA, Lanette 18, Hainol 18SS, Stearylalkohol, Alcohol(C18), Custom stearyl, CO-1895, Ultrapure s, Oristar sa, Lipocol s-deo, Lipocol S, Stearyl alcohol s, Crodacol s95, Stearyl alcohol pc, Alfol 18 alcohol, Aec stearyl alcohol, Crodacol s-95, Nacol 18do alcohol, Nikkol stearyl alcohol, Sabonal c 18 95, DTXSID8026935, Nacol 18-94 alcohol, Nacol 18-98 alcohol, Nacol 18-99 alcohol, NSC-5379, 2KR89I4H1Y, NSC5379, STEARYL ALCOHOL 98/F, STEARYL ALCOHOL 98/P, DTXCID306935, CHEBI:32154, CACHALOT S-56 STEARYL ALCOHOL, RefChem:6261, 204-017-6, Octadecanol, 1-0ctadecanol, C18H38O, Octadecanol NF, MFCD00002823, CO-1897, Octodecylalcohol, NCGC00159369-02, NCGC00159369-04, Crodacol S, Octadecanol, 1-, Stearyl alcohol; octadecan-1-ol, Rofamol, 1-stearyl alcohol, CAS-112-92-5, Kalcohl 80, CCRIS 3960, Conol 30F, Kalcohl 8098, HSDB 1082, Adol 62, Conol 1675, NSC 5379, EINECS 204-017-6, Stearyl alcohol [JAN:NF], BRN 1362907, stearylalcohol, UNII-2KR89I4H1Y, Octanodecanol, Stearal, AI3-01330, n-octadecylalcohol, Varonic BG, Octadecanol,1-, Crodacol S70, Crodacol S95NF, Stearyl alcohol NF, CO 1895F, stearyl alcohol pure, Aec cetearyl alcohol, Cachalot S-56, Philcohol 1800, Stearyl alcohol CRS, Stearyl alcohol USP, Lanette 18 DEO, Lorol C18, OCTADECENOL-, 1-Octadecanol, 95%, SSD AF (Salt/Mix), EC 204-017-6, Ceteareth-20 (Salt/Mix), SCHEMBL23810, OCTADECANOL [WHO-DD], STEARYL ALCOHOL [II], STEARYL ALCOHOL [MI], 4-01-00-01888 (Beilstein Handbook Reference), CHEMBL24640, SCHEMBL108474, SCHEMBL113730, SCHEMBL208871, SCHEMBL337456, SCHEMBL337457, Stearyl alcohol (JP17/NF), STEARYL ALCOHOL [JAN], STEARYL ALCOHOL [HSDB], 1-Hydroxyoctadecane (Standard), orb1301912, SCHEMBL2955017, SCHEMBL8434344, WLN: Q18, STEARYL ALCOHOL [VANDF], SCHEMBL28351454, STEARYL ALCOHOL [MART.], HY-Y1809R, STEARYL ALCOHOL [USP-RS], STEARYL ALCOHOL [WHO-DD], CS-D1671, HY-Y1809, Tox21_111610, EBC-48124, LMFA05000085, SBB060168, 1-Octadecanol, technical grade, 80%, AKOS009031494, STEARYL ALCOHOL [EP MONOGRAPH], Tox21_111610_1, 1-Octadecanol, ReagentPlus(R), 99%, NCGC00159369-03, BP-14065, SY011369, 1-Octadecanol, puriss., >=99.0% (GC), NS00001960, O0006, ST51046402, T5295, 1-Octadecanol, Selectophore(TM), >=99.5%, EN300-19954, 1-Octadecanol, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 94%, D01924, G76689, SBI-0635052.0002, F240948, L000755, Q632384, SR-01000944718, SR-01000944718-1, Stearyl Alcohol; Octadecyl alcohol; Stearyl alcohol, BRD-K20501889-001-02-0, Z104476204, Stearyl alcohol, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard, 2DEF44B7-B367-4188-89E4-531379568C74, Stearyl alcohol, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard, Stearyl Alcohol, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material, InChI=1/C18H38O/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-18-19/h19H,2-18H2,1H, 1-Octadecanol, 1-Octadécanol, 1-Octadecanol, 112-92-5, 1362907, [Beilstein], 204-017-6, 2KR89I4H1Y, Octadecan-1-ol, octadecyl alcohol, Stearyl alcohol, stenol, steryl alcohol, 1-Hydroxyoctadecane, 1-Octacosanol, 1-Octadecan-1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,9,9,10,10,11,11,12,12,13,13,14,14,15,15,16,16,17,17,18,18,18-d37-ol(9CI), 1-Octadecanol, Stearyl alcohol, Octadecanol, 1-OCTADECANOL-1,1-D2, 1-Stearyl alcohol, 2-(1-adamantyl)-2-amino-acetic acid, 2-(adamantan-1-yl)-2-aminoacetic acid, 204259-62-1, 267-008-6, 272-778-1, 2DMT128M1S, 557-61-9, 86369-69-9, 97%, 99%, ultrapure, Atalco S, B1K89384RJ, Cachalot S-56, Cetostearyl alcohol, Conol 30F, Crodacol S, Crodacol S70, Crodacol S95NF, Crodacol-S, Decyl octyl alcohol, Lanette 18 DEO, Lanol S, Lorol C18, N-1-Octadecanol, N-Octadecanol, N-Octadecyl alcohol, n-Octadecyl-1,1-d2 Alcohol, n-Octadecyl-d37 Alcohol, Octadecanol, Octadecanol NF, Octadecanol, 1-, Octadecylalkohol, Octanodecanol, Octodecyl alcohol, Polaax, Rita SA, Rofamol, Sipol S, Siponol S, Siponol SC, SSD AF, Stearal, Stearic alcohol, Stearol, Stearyl alcohol (JP17/NF), Stearyl alcohol NF, Stearyl alcohol USP, Stearylalkohol, Steraffine, Varonic BG
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is an organic compound classified as a saturated fatty alcohol with the formula C18H38O or CH3(CH2)17OH.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) takes the form of white granules or flakes, which are insoluble in water.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has a wide range of uses as an ingredient in lubricants, resins, perfumes, and cosmetics.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener in ointments, and is widely used as a hair coating in shampoos and hair conditioners.
Stearyl heptanoate, the ester of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) and heptanoic acid (enanthic acid), is found in most cosmetic eyeliners.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has also found application as an evaporation suppressing monolayer when applied to the surface of water.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is prepared from stearic acid or certain fats by the process of catalytic hydrogenation.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has low toxicity.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is a solid fatty alcohol serving as thickener and emollient in cosmetic creams.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is also used as raw material for surfactant synthesis and textile lubricant.
Octadecan-1-ol is a long-chain primary fatty alcohol consisting of a hydroxy function at C-1 of an unbranched saturated chain of 18 carbon atoms.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has a role as a plant metabolite, a human metabolite and an algal metabolite.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is an octadecanol and a long-chain primary fatty alcohol.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is a straight-chain, saturated fatty alcohol with the chemical formula C₁₈H₃₈O and a molecular weight of 270.5 g/mol.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) appears as a white, waxy solid at room temperature and is derived from natural sources such as coconut or palm oil through reduction processes.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is insoluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform, making it valuable in formulations requiring emulsification and stabilization.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is widely used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener in cosmetics and personal care products, as well as in pharmaceuticals and industrial applications.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has low acute toxicity and is generally regarded as safe for use, though environmental impacts are considered in regulations.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is an organic compound classified as a fatty alcohol with the formula CH3(CH2)16CH2OH.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) takes the form of white granules or flakes, which are insoluble in water.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has a wide range of uses as an ingredient in lubricants, resins, perfumes, and cosmetics.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener in ointments.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is a long-chain fatty alcohol (octadecanol, C₁₈H₃₈O) derived from hydrogenating stearic acid sourced from coconut or palm oils.
This white, waxy solid functions primarily as an emollient, forming a lightweight barrier that softens and smooths skin while reducing transepidermal water loss.
As a co-emulsifier, thickening agent, and viscosity controller, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) stabilizes oil-in-water formulations, imparts a creamy texture, and prevents ingredient separation.
Additional roles include opacifying, foam boosting, and mild surfactancy, enhancing spreadability and cleansing performance.
Non-comedogenic and well-tolerated by sensitive skin, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) appears in creams, lotions, conditioners, deodorants, and stick products at typical use levels of 0.5–10%.
Applications of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is used in the synthesis of O-octadecyl-S-trifluorothiolcarbonate, which is a storable crystalline source of trifluoromethanethiol.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) can be used to improve solution processability of conjugated polymers used in the organic electronic applications.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) induces hydrophobicity to the amphiphiles used in the drug and gene delivery.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is also employed in the synthesis of solid-liquid phase change materials (PCMs), surfactant and stabilizers.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is a long chain primary alcohol that is used in the production of emulsions, textile oils, antifoam agents, and lubricants.
Other large scale applications include the manufacture of alkyl amines, tertiary amines, ethoxylates, halides/mercaptans, and polymerization stabilizers.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) occurs naturally in sperm whale oil and has been isolated from the hyperthermophilic bacterium Pyrococcus furiosus.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has been used to model the plant epicuticular wax layer for an investigation by differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.
The use of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) to prepare microsphere formulations for such compounds as paclitaxel and indomethacin has been described.
Pharmaceutical Applications:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is used in cosmetics and topical pharmaceutical creams and ointments as a stiffening agent.
By increasing the viscosity of an emulsion, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) increases its stability.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) also has some emollient and weak emulsifying properties, and is used to increase the water-holding capacity of ointments, e.g. petrolatum.
In addition, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has been used in controlled-release tablets, suppositories, and microspheres.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has also been investigated for use as a transdermal penetration enhancer.
Uses of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is used as a substitute for cetyl alcohol in pharmaceutical dispensing; in cosmetic creams and perfumery; in textile oils and finishes; as an antifoam agent; and in lubricants, resins, and surface active agents.
Synthetic 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has been approved as a direct and indirect food additive ingredient and as an ingredient in over-the-counter drugs.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is used as a surfactant in cosmetics.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) effectively moisturizes hands and face with pheohydrane, which is a complex derived from the microalgae Chlorella Vulgaris and hydrolyzed algin found in sea water.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is a saturated alcohol of high purity and can substitute for cetyl alcohol in pharmaceutical dispensing, in cosmetic creams, for emulsions, textile oils and finishes, as antifoam agent, lubricant, viscosity agent, builder, and chemical raw material.
Cosmetics and personal care:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) serves as a primary emulsifier and co-emulsifier in oil-in-water emulsions for creams and lotions, where it stabilizes formulations to prevent phase separation and enhance product consistency.
Reported use concentrations range from less than 0.1% to over 50%, though commonly under 25%.
As a viscosity builder, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) contributes to thicker, more luxurious textures in these products by increasing the overall rheology without compromising spreadability.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)'s amphiphilic nature allows it to bridge oil and water phases effectively, supporting stable emulsions common in personal care formulations.
In specific beauty and hygiene products, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is incorporated into shampoos at 0.5–2% to act as a foam booster, improving lather stability and creaminess during use.
In hair conditioners, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) provides slip and detangling benefits by coating the hair shaft, reducing friction and enhancing manageability.
For lip balms, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) functions as an emollient, delivering a smooth application and protective layer on the lips.
These applications leverage 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)'s ability to integrate seamlessly into diverse product matrices.
Key benefits include 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)'s non-comedogenic profile, with a comedogenic rating of 2, making it suitable for acne-prone skin without pore clogging.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) forms an occlusive barrier that promotes moisture retention by reducing transepidermal water loss, while avoiding a greasy feel due to its lightweight emolliency.
This enhances spreadability in many emulsified cosmetics, improving user experience through even distribution.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) exhibits strong compatibility when paired with cetyl alcohol, creating synergistic thickening effects in blended forms like cetearyl alcohol for optimized viscosity in emulsions.
Historically, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) has been used in cold creams since the 1930s to provide emollient and stabilizing properties in early moisturizing formulations.
Concentration guidelines typically range from 1–5% in leave-on products like lotions and creams, and up to 10% in rinse-off items such as shampoos, aligning with safety assessments for cosmetic use.
Industrial and other applications:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) finds extensive use in industrial sectors beyond personal care, leveraging its waxy texture and emollient properties to enhance product performance in manufacturing processes.
In lubricants and antifoams, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is incorporated into metalworking fluids to reduce friction and improve machining efficiency, while in detergents, it functions as a defoamer to control foam formation during cleaning operations.
Within the pharmaceutical industry, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) serves as a key excipient in ointments and suppositories, where it can constitute up to 20% of the formulation to provide structural support for the base and facilitate controlled drug release.
As a food additive, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) holds Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status and is approved for multipurpose applications, including as a component in flavors and a release agent in confections, with usage limited to less than 0.5% to ensure safety and functionality.
In other applications, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) acts as a plasticizer retarder in polymer formulations to prevent excessive absorption and maintain material integrity, and as a softener in textile finishing processes to reduce fiber friction and enhance fabric handle.
As of 2023, global 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) production exceeded 400,000 tons for chemical grade alone, contributing significantly to the fatty alcohol market, estimated at around 4 million tons in 2025.
The 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) market was valued at approximately USD 7.7 billion in 2024.
Industry Uses:
Defoamer
Intermediate
Emulsifier
Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
Stabilizing agent
Sealant (barrier)
Cleaning agent
Fuel
Antioxidant
Surfactant (surface active agent)
Lubricating agent
Other
Binder
Solvent
Consumer Uses:
Cleaning agent
Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
Emulsifier
Softener and conditioner
Solvent
Other
Binder
Lubricating agent
Surfactant (surface active agent)
Fuel
Properties of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Physical properties:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is a straight-chain saturated primary alcohol with the molecular formula C18H38O and the structural formula CH3(CH2)16CH2OH.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) appears as a white, waxy solid in the form of hard pieces, flakes, or granules, exhibiting a mild, characteristic fatty odor.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) undergoes a phase transition from solid to liquid at a melting point ranging from 56 to 60 °C, with precise literature values reported between 59.4 and 59.8 °C.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)'s boiling point is approximately 336 °C at atmospheric pressure, though it distills at around 210 °C under reduced pressure (10–15 mmHg).
The density of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is about 0.81 g/cm³ when measured in the liquid state near 60 °C.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) demonstrates low solubility in water, approximately 1.1 × 10−3 mg/L at 25 °C, attributable to its long hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain.
In contrast, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is readily soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, benzene, acetone, chloroform, and vegetable oils.
Additional physical characteristics include a refractive index of approximately 1.438 at 60 °C and a flash point exceeding 170 °C (closed cup).
These properties render 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) stable and suitable for handling in solid or molten forms under typical laboratory and industrial conditions.
Chemical properties:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is classified as a saturated fatty alcohol characterized by a long, unbranched 18-carbon hydrocarbon chain with a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the terminal (C-1) carbon.
This primary alcohol structure enables typical reactivity associated with aliphatic alcohols, including the formation of hydrogen bonds due to the polar -OH group and susceptibility to esterification reactions where the hydroxyl acts as a nucleophile.
Under ambient conditions, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) demonstrates high stability and remains largely non-reactive toward acids and alkalis, resisting rancidification common in unsaturated compounds.
However, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) can undergo oxidation in the presence of strong oxidizing agents, first forming an aldehyde intermediate (octadecanal) and further proceeding to the corresponding carboxylic acid, stearic acid (octadecanoic acid).
Additionally, under acidic conditions and elevated temperatures, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) participates in dehydration reactions, eliminating water to yield alkenes such as octadecene.
The molecule's amphiphilic nature arises from the polar hydroxyl head group and the non-polar aliphatic tail, resulting in a topological polar surface area of 20.2 Ų and a high lipophilicity (XLogP3 of 8.4), which allows it to adsorb at oil-water interfaces and reduce interfacial surface tension.
This behavior promotes emulsification by lowering the energy barrier for droplet formation and coalescence prevention in biphasic systems, though 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) typically serves as a co-emulsifier rather than a standalone surfactant.
The pKa of the hydroxyl group is approximately 15.2, reflecting 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)'s weak acidity and limited proton donation capacity in neutral or basic environments.
In terms of compatibility, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) readily forms esters with carboxylic acids through acid-catalyzed processes like Fischer esterification, yielding compounds such as stearyl stearate, and can be converted to ethers using the Williamson synthesis, involving deprotonation of the alcohol followed by reaction with an alkyl halide.
These reactions highlight 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)'s versatility in synthetic chemistry while maintaining overall chemical inertness in standard storage conditions.
Production of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Natural sources:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) occurs naturally as a component of various animal fats, particularly in whale and dolphin oils, including spermaceti from the sperm whale head cavity, where it forms part of the wax ester mixtures alongside other fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol.
In these lipids, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) contributes to the overall composition of long-chain alcohols derived from the hydrolysis of wax esters, historically recognized as a key natural source before synthetic production dominated.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is also found in smaller amounts in plant-derived materials, as a metabolite in plants like Camellia sinensis (tea) and in algal species, underscoring its broad biological distribution.
Historically, extraction from these natural sources involved saponification of animal fats or plant waxes using alkali to hydrolyze esters into free fatty acids and alcohols, followed by acidification and fractional distillation to isolate the 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) fraction; this method was prevalent in the 19th and early 20th centuries prior to the rise of petrochemical alternatives.
In biological systems, 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) functions as a structural element in lipid assemblies, contributing to wax formation that provides protective barriers against environmental stresses like dehydration and pathogen invasion in plants and algae, while in animals, it supports specialized lipid structures such as those in marine mammal oils for buoyancy and thermal regulation.
Industrial synthesis:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is primarily produced industrially through the catalytic hydrogenation of stearic acid (C17H35COOH), a process that converts the carboxylic acid group to an alcohol under high temperature and pressure conditions.
This method employs copper chromite (Adkins-type Cu-Cr catalysts) or nickel-based catalysts to achieve high selectivity, typically operating at temperatures of 200–300°C and pressures of 50–200 atm in a continuous flow reactor system.
The reaction proceeds via hydrodeoxygenation, where hydrogen gas reduces the acid to the corresponding alcohol, yielding 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) with greater than 95% purity directly from the reactor effluent.
Today, the primary feedstock for stearic acid is vegetable oils such as palm kernel oil and coconut oil.
Alternative synthetic routes include the reduction of methyl stearate esters, which are first derived from stearic acid via esterification with methanol.
These esters can be reduced using sodium or lithium aluminum hydride in laboratory settings, though industrial applications favor catalytic hydrogenation of the esters with copper or nickel catalysts under similar high-pressure conditions to produce 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol).
Another pathway involves the Ziegler process, where ethylene undergoes oligomerization with triethylaluminum to form aluminum alkyls, followed by controlled oxidation to alcohols and subsequent hydrolysis, yielding straight-chain even-numbered fatty alcohols like 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol).
This petrochemical route provides a fully synthetic alternative independent of natural fatty acid feedstocks.
Following synthesis, the crude product undergoes purification primarily via vacuum distillation to remove unreacted stearic acid, shorter-chain byproducts such as palmitic alcohol (C16), and other impurities.
This step operates under reduced pressure (typically 1–10 mmHg) to lower the boiling point and prevent thermal decomposition, achieving separation based on differences in volatility and resulting in high-purity 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) suitable for commercial use.
The industrial production of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) shifted dramatically from natural sources after the 1960s, driven by the decline in whale oil availability due to overexploitation and international conservation laws, such as the International Whaling Commission's regulations that curtailed commercial whaling.
By the 1980s, synthetic methods had fully replaced whale-derived feedstocks, with global production relying entirely on vegetable oils, animal fats, or petrochemical routes to meet demand.
Typical industrial yields for these processes range from 90–98%, reflecting efficient catalyst performance and minimal side reactions.
Stability and Reactivity of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Chemical Stability:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) is generally stable under normal recommended storage and handling conditions.
Reactivity:
No hazardous reaction is expected when handled and stored properly.
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) may react with strong oxidizing agents.
Conditions to Avoid:
Avoid excessive heat, open flames, sparks, direct sunlight, moisture, and dust formation.
Incompatible Materials:
Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, strong bases, and highly reactive chemicals.
Hazardous Decomposition Products:
Thermal decomposition or combustion may produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and irritating organic fumes.
Handling and Storage of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Handling:
Handle according to good industrial hygiene and safety practices.
Avoid breathing dust or vapors and avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
Ventilation:
Use adequate ventilation, especially where dust, vapors, or heated material fumes may be generated.
Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
Storage Conditions:
Keep away from heat, ignition sources, direct sunlight, oxidizing agents, and incompatible materials.
Hygiene Measures:
Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly after handling.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using the product.
First Aid Measures of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Inhalation:
Move the affected person to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if coughing, irritation, or breathing discomfort occurs.
Skin Contact:
Wash skin with plenty of water and soap.
Seek medical attention if irritation develops or persists.
Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with plenty of water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Seek medical attention if irritation continues.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel.
Seek medical attention if large amounts are swallowed or discomfort occurs.
Firefighting Measures of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Use water spray, dry chemical powder, foam, or carbon dioxide.
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media:
Avoid using a strong direct water jet, as 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol) may spread burning material.
Specific Hazards:
The product may burn under fire conditions.
Heating or combustion may release carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and irritating organic fumes.
Protective Equipment for Firefighters:
Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.
Accidental Release Measures of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Personal Precautions:
Avoid dust formation.
Avoid breathing dust or fumes from heated material.
Prevent contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
Protective Equipment:
Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, protective clothing, and a dust mask or suitable respirator if dust levels are high.
Environmental Precautions:
Prevent large quantities from entering drains, waterways, or soil.
Cleanup Methods:
Sweep or vacuum solid material carefully while avoiding dust generation.
Collect into suitable labeled containers for disposal.
Wash contaminated area after removal.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Engineering Controls:
Use adequate ventilation and local exhaust ventilation where dust or fumes may be generated.
Eyewash stations should be available in the working area.
Respiratory Protection:
Use a dust mask or suitable respirator if airborne dust or heated vapors are generated.
Hand Protection:
Wear suitable protective gloves.
Eye Protection:
Wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side protection.
Skin and Body Protection:
Wear protective work clothing to prevent unnecessary skin contact.
General Hygiene Measures:
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling.
Wash hands thoroughly after use and remove contaminated clothing before reuse.
Identifiers of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Product Number: O0006
Purity / Analysis Method : >98.0%(GC)
Molecular Formula: C18H38O
Molecular Weight: 270.50
Physical State (20 deg.C): Solid
Storage Temperature: Room Temperature (Recommended in a cool and dark place, <15°C)
CAS RN: 112-92-5
Reaxys Registry Number: 1362907
PubChem Substance ID: 87574025
SDBS (AIST Spectral DB): 2701
Merck Index (14): 8805
MDL Number: MFCD00002823
Name: octadecan-1-ol
CAS Number: 112-92-5
ECHA EINECS - REACH Pre-Reg: 204-017-6
FDA UNII: 2KR89I4H1Y
Nikkaji Web: J10.101J
Beilstein Number: 1362907
MDL: MFCD00002823
XlogP3: 8.40 (est)
Molecular Weight: 270.50006000
Formula: C18 H38 O
Chemical Name: 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)
Synonyms: 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)
CAS No.: 112-92-5
Molecular Formula: C18H38O
Molecular Weight: 270.49
Appearance: Solid
Molecular formula: C18H38O
Average mass: 270.501
Monoisotopic mass: 270.292266
ChemSpider ID: 7928
Linear Formula: CH3(CH2)17OH
CAS Number: 112-92-5
Molecular Weight: 270.49
UNSPSC Code: 12352100
NACRES: NA.22
PubChem Substance ID: 24898043
EC Number: 204-017-6
Beilstein/REAXYS Number: 1362907
MDL number: MFCD00002823
Assay: 95%
Form: solid
CAS Number: 112-92-5
ChEBI: CHEBI:32154
ChEMBL: ChEMBL24640
ChemSpider: 7928
ECHA InfoCard: 100.003.652
PubChem CID: 8221
UNII: 2KR89I4H1Y
CompTox Dashboard (EPA): DTXSID8026935
InChI: InChI=1S/C18H38O/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-18-19/h19H,2-18H2,1H3
Key: GLDOVTGHNKAZLK-UHFFFAOYSA-N
InChI=1/C18H38O/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-18-19/h19H,2-18H2,1H3
Key: GLDOVTGHNKAZLK-UHFFFAOYAZ
SMILES: OCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC
CAS No.: 112-92-5
Chemical Name: 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)
CBNumber: CB4852872
Molecular Formula: C18H38O
Molecular Weight: 270.49
MDL Number: MFCD00002823
Properties of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Chemical formula: C18H38O
Molar mass: 270.501 g·mol−1
Appearance: White solid
Density: 0.812 g/cm3
Melting point: 59.4 to 59.8 °C (138.9 to 139.6 °F; 332.5 to 332.9 K)
Boiling point: 210 °C (410 °F; 483 K) at 15 mmHg (2.0 kPa)
Solubility in water: 1.1×10−3 mg/L
Melting Point: 56-59 °C (lit.)
Boiling Point: 210°C15 mm Hg
Density: 0.812 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
Refractive Index: 1.4356 (estimate)
Flash Point: 185°C
Appearance: Solid
Colour: White
Solubility: Insoluble in water
Appearance: white solid powder (est)
Assay: 98.00 to 100.00
Food Chemicals Codex Listed: No
Melting Point: 57.00 to 60.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg
Boiling Point: 210.00 °C. @ 15.00 mm Hg
Boiling Point: 333.00 to 335.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg
Vapor Pressure: 0.000009 mmHg @ 25.00 °C. (est)
Vapor Density: 9.3 ( Air = 1 )
Flash Point: 282.00 °F. TCC ( 138.89 °C. )
logP (o/w): 7.971 (est)
vapor density: 9.3 (vs air)
Quality Segment: 200
vapor pressure: <0.01 mmHg ( 38 °C)
assay: 95%
form: solid
autoignition temp.: 842 °F
expl. lim.: ~8 %
bp: 210 °C/15 mmHg
mp: 56-59 °C (lit.)
solubility: H2O: slightly soluble 0.001 g/L at 23 °C
density: 0.812 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
functional group: hydroxyl
SMILES string: CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCO
InChI: 1S/C18H38O/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-18-19/h19H,2-18H2,1H3
InChI key: GLDOVTGHNKAZLK-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Melting point: 56-59 °C (lit.)
Boiling point: 210 °C15 mm Hg
Density: 0.812 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
bulk density: 300kg/m3
vapor density: 9.3 (vs air)
vapor pressure: <0.01 mm Hg ( 38 °C)
refractive index: 1.4356 (estimate)
FLAVIS Number: 02.196 | Octadecan-1-ol
Flash point: 185°C
storage temp.: 2-8°C
solubility: methanol: soluble10mg/mL, clear, colorless
form: Flakes
pka: 15.20±0.10(Predicted)
Specific Gravity: 0.812
color: White
Odor: wh. unctuous flakes or gran., faint odor, bland taste
Viscosity: 4.006mm2/s
explosive limit: ~8%
Water Solubility: insoluble
Merck: 14,8805
BRN: 1362907
Henry's Law Constant: 1.2×10-2 mol/(m3Pa) at 25℃, Duchowicz et al. (2020)
Melting Point: 59 °C
Boiling Point: 210 °C/15 mmHg
Solubility in water: Insoluble
Solubility (soluble in): Ether
Molecular Weight: 270.5 g/mol
XLogP3: 8.4
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 1
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 1
Rotatable Bond Count: 16
Exact Mass: 270.292265831 Da
Monoisotopic Mass: 270.292265831 Da
Topological Polar Surface Area: 20.2 Ų
Heavy Atom Count: 19
Complexity: 145
Isotope Atom Count: 0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 1
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes
Specifications of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Appearance: White powder to lump
Purity(GC): min. 98.0 %
Melting point: 57.0 to 60.0 °C
Solubility in hot Methanol: almost transparency
Names of 1-Octadecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
Preferred IUPAC name:
Octadecan-1-ol
Other name:
1-Octadecanol (Stearyl alcohol)