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16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a branched-chain saturated fatty acid with the molecular formula C₁₈H₃₆O₂, structurally related to the more common linear stearic acid, and its branching lowers crystallinity and melting point, giving it a softer texture and improved spreadability.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is primarily produced synthetically through isomerization of stearic acid or controlled oxidation of branched hydrocarbons, since it is rarely found in nature.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is widely used in cosmetics and personal care as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, and in industrial sectors for branched esters in lubricants, coatings, and resins, offering enhanced oxidative stability, flexibility, and sensory benefits.
CAS Number: 30399-84-9
EC Number: 250-187-1
Molecular Formula: C18H36O2
Molecular Weight: 284.48 g/mol
Synonyms: Isooctadecanoic Acid, Iso-Stearic Acid, Isostearic Acid, 18-Methylheptadecanoic Acid, Branched C18 Fatty Acid, C18 Branched Fatty Acid, 2-Hexyl-Octadecanoic Acid, Stearic Acid, Iso-Octadecenoic Acid, Isooctadecanoic Fatty Acid, Isostearic Acid Emollient, Cosmetic Grade Isostearic Acid, Isomeric Stearic Acid, C18 Iso Fatty Acid, Octadecane Isomer Acid, Isostearic Acid Emulsifier, Stearic Acid Isomer, ISO-C18 Fatty Acid, 18-Carbon Branched Fatty Acid, Isomer Stearic Acid, 2-Methyl Heptadecanoic Acid, ISO Stearic Acid, Emollient Fatty Acid, Isostearic Acid for Personal Care, Industrial Grade Isostearic Acid, IsoSTEARIC ACID, Isooctadecanoic acid, 16-METHYLHEPTADECANOIC ACID, 2724-58-5, 30399-84-9, 16-methyl margaric acid, 16-methyl-heptadecanoic acid, LZM5XA0ILL, CHEBI:84896, Prisorine 3509, Heptadecanoic acid, 16-methyl-, (+)-Isostearic acid, 16-methylmargaric acid, 16-METHYLHEPTADECANOICACID, Isostearic acid, >=97%, heptadecanoic acid, 16-methyl-, jaric I-18CG, jaric I-18IG, jaric I-18LG, liponate ISA, 16-methyl heptadecanoic acid, 16-methyl margaric acid, 16-methylheptadecanoic acid, isooctadecanoic acid, prisorine 3505, prisorine 3515, isostearicacid, 16-methyl-heptadecanoicaci, Heptadedecanoicacid,16-Methyl
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a branched-chain saturated fatty acid with the molecular formula C₁₈H₃₆O₂, considered an isomer of stearic acid.
Unlike 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's straight-chain analogue, the branching in its carbon backbone lowers its melting point and crystallinity, giving it a softer, less waxy texture and improved spreadability.
Typically appearing as a white to off-white crystalline or waxy solid, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is insoluble in water but soluble in many organic solvents such as ethanol and chloroform.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is produced synthetically, either through isomerization of stearic acid or by controlled oxidation of branched hydrocarbons, as it is rarely found in nature.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products as an emollient, thickener, and skin-conditioning agent, where its branching structure provides a smooth, non-greasy feel.
Industrially, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid serves in the manufacture of esters for lubricants, coatings, and resins, offering better oxidative stability and flexibility.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is considered safe under normal use, with low toxicity and minimal environmental risk, but should be stored in closed containers away from strong oxidizers and handled to avoid direct contact or inhalation of dust.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a branched fatty acid known for its emollient, stabilizing, and lubricating properties, making it widely used in cosmetics, personal care, and industrial products.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is appreciated for its ability to provide a smooth, non-greasy feel in personal care products, enhancing texture and user experience.
In industrial applications, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is valued for its stable structure and effective lubricating properties, reducing friction and wear in machinery.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is biodegradable and derived from natural sources, aligning with sustainability-focused products in both consumer and industrial applications.
The branched structure of 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid provides unique properties compared to straight-chain fatty acids, including enhanced spreadability and improved skin compatibility.
Due to its stability and mildness, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is suitable for use in products formulated for sensitive skin and delicate applications.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a branched long-chain fatty acid commonly used in personal care, cosmetics, and industrial applications as an emollient, lubricant, and stabilizer.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is valued for its ability to provide a smooth, non-greasy feel in skincare products and to enhance the texture and consistency of various formulations.
In addition to its moisturizing properties, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is known for its role in stabilizing emulsions and improving the spreadability of active ingredients in formulations.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a methyl-branched fatty acid that is heptadecanoic acid (margaric acid) substituted by a methyl group at position 16.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a branched-chain saturated fatty acid, a long-chain fatty acid and a methyl-branched fatty acid.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is functionally related to a heptadecanoic acid.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a natural product found in Aristolochia grandiflora, Streptomyces, and other organisms with data available.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a lightly-branched, liquid fatty acid produced by the reaction of oleic acid with a natural mineral catalyst – there is no chemical addition in this reaction, isostearic acid is based 100% on the parent oil or fat.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in applications which require a liquid fatty acid with exceptional stability: thermal stability in the case of a lubricant, odour stability for a cosmetic formulation, and oxidation stability for products with long shelf-life requirements.
The branching structure of isostearic acid also enhances 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's dispersing power
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in cosmetic and industrial applications for the stabilisation of pigments and mineral particles in oils and solvents.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a methyl-branched fatty acid.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a long chain fatty acid.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a slightly branched, liquid fatty acid
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid has excellent stability
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in applications that require liquid fatty acids
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid provides fragrance stability for a cosmetic formulation
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a branched-chain saturated fatty acid with the molecular formula C₁₈H₃₆O₂, structurally related to the more common linear stearic acid (octadecanoic acid).
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's distinguishing feature is the presence of branching in the hydrocarbon backbone, which significantly influences its physical, chemical, and functional characteristics.
This branching interrupts the close packing of molecules, leading to reduced crystallinity, a lower melting point, and a softer, more pliable consistency compared to straight-chain fatty acids.
In its pure form, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid usually appears as a white to off-white crystalline or waxy solid, and while it is insoluble in water, it dissolves readily in many organic solvents such as ethanol, chloroform, and diethyl ether.
These solubility properties make 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid particularly adaptable for use in formulations where compatibility with oils and nonpolar systems is required.
From a production standpoint, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is not commonly encountered in natural fats and oils, unlike straight-chain fatty acids, and is primarily obtained through synthetic processes.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid can be prepared by the isomerization of stearic acid or through controlled oxidation of branched hydrocarbons.
These methods allow precise tailoring of the degree of branching, which in turn affects the performance of 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid in various industrial and commercial applications.
The rarity of 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's natural occurrence makes synthetic production essential for its commercial use.
Functionally, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid plays an important role in multiple sectors.
In cosmetics and personal care, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is highly valued as an emollient, skin-conditioning agent, and thickener, imparting a smooth, non-greasy feel to creams, lotions, and hair care products.
The branching in 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's structure enhances spreadability on the skin and reduces the heavy or waxy sensation often associated with long-chain saturated fatty acids.
In the industrial sector, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is employed in the manufacture of branched fatty acid esters used in lubricants, plasticizers, surfactants, and specialty coatings.
These esters exhibit improved oxidative stability, low-temperature fluidity, and flexibility compared to those derived from linear fatty acids, making them useful in advanced polymer, resin, and adhesive formulations.
The benefits of 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid stem from its unique molecular structure.
The branching contributes to improved oxidative stability compared to unsaturated fatty acids, prevents the formation of hard crystalline structures, and enhances the hydrophobic protective properties of formulations.
These attributes make 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid a versatile ingredient, capable of balancing both functional performance and sensory appeal in end products.
In terms of safety and handling, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is generally regarded as safe for its intended uses in cosmetics, personal care, and industrial applications.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid exhibits low acute toxicity and is considered to have a minimal environmental hazard profile.
However, as with most fatty acids, basic precautions should be observed during storage and handling.
The substance should be kept in tightly sealed containers, protected from moisture and strong oxidizing agents, and handled in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of dust or contact with eyes and skin.
Chemically, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is stable under normal storage conditions and can undergo typical fatty acid reactions such as esterification, amidation, and salt formation, making it a useful intermediate in chemical synthesis.
At elevated temperatures, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid may decompose, releasing hydrocarbons and carbon oxides, so it should not be subjected to extreme heat without proper safety measures.
Market Overview of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid occupies a niche but increasingly important position in the broader fatty acid market, where branched-chain C18 fatty acids are being recognized for their unique properties compared to traditional straight-chain analogues like stearic acid.
Unlike stearic acid, which is widely available and inexpensive, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid requires more specialized synthetic production methods such as isomerization or controlled oxidation, which elevates its cost but also enhances its value in applications demanding premium performance.
This structural difference gives 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid advantages in functionality, including reduced crystallinity, a lower melting point, and improved oxidative stability, all of which contribute to superior performance in formulations where texture, stability, and long-term shelf life are critical.
As a result, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is particularly sought after in the cosmetics and personal care industry, where it acts as an emollient, thickener, and skin-conditioning agent, providing a smooth, non-greasy sensory profile that aligns with consumer demand for light and effective formulations in creams, lotions, and hair care products.
Beyond cosmetics, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid has a role in industrial markets, especially in the manufacture of branched esters for use in lubricants, coatings, resins, and adhesives.
Here, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's branching contributes to improved low-temperature fluidity, flexibility, and resistance to oxidation compared to straight-chain fatty acid derivatives.
Such properties are increasingly valued in high-performance materials and specialty chemicals, particularly in sectors seeking durable, stable, and environmentally friendlier alternatives.
While the overall market size for 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is considerably smaller than that of stearic acid, it parallels the isostearic acid market, which has already demonstrated solid growth with an estimated value in the hundreds of millions of dollars and projected compound annual growth rates (CAGR) in the range of 6–7%.
By extension, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is expected to follow a similar trajectory, with growth opportunities emerging in both established and developing markets.
Geographically, the Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to be the fastest-growing market, driven by rising consumer demand for personal care products and the rapid industrial expansion in China, India, and Southeast Asia.
Meanwhile, Europe and North America are likely to remain important markets due to regulatory emphasis on sustainable, bio-based, and biodegradable ingredients, as well as consumer preference for clean-label and high-performance products.
Emerging markets in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa may adopt 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid more slowly, primarily due to cost barriers, but they nonetheless present long-term opportunities as disposable incomes rise and demand for advanced formulations spreads.
The main challenges for market growth include the relatively high production costs, limited large-scale manufacturing capacity, and competition from cheaper linear fatty acids and alternative emollients or lubricants.
However, these challenges are offset by the fact that 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid occupies a specialty chemicals segment where differentiation, performance, and sustainability matter more than bulk commodity pricing.
As consumer and industrial preferences continue to shift toward higher-value, sustainable, and functional materials, the market outlook for 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid suggests steady expansion at niche but profitable levels, with strong opportunities in cosmetics, specialty esters, and industrial performance applications.
Uses of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used for washing & cleaning products and many other industrial areas.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is an exceptionally mild liquid fatty acid that offers a light lubricious feel
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid can be used in many skin care and colour cosmetic applications.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid also offers film forming properties, making it ideal for use in soaps, shaving foams and liquid cleansers.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is an easy spreading liquid fatty alcohol.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid offers moisturising properties and a very light, silky, soft dry skin feel.
Excellent liquidity and oxidation stability makes 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid perfect for use in skin care and colour cosmetics.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a lightly-branched, liquid fatty acid produced by the reaction of oleic acid with a natural mineral catalyst there is no chemical addition in this reaction, isostearic acid is based 100% on the parent oil or fat.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in applications which require a liquid fatty acid with exceptional stability: thermal stability in the case of a lubricant, odour stability for a cosmetic formulation, and oxidation stability for products with long shelf-life requirements.
The branching structure of isostearic acid also enhances its dispersing power, and 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in cosmetic and industrial applications for the stabilisation of pigments and mineral particles in oils and solvents.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a unique mixture of branched and straight-chain saturated C18 fatty acids.
The high content of branched acids makes 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid a liquid product, while the very low level of unsaturation results in excellent oxidative stability.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used as a lubricant and plasticizer.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid has a light color, low odor and pleasant nontacky feel.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a useful synthetic intermediate.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in the synthesis of methyl-branched poly(hydroxyalkanoate)s, biosurfactants and silver nanoparticles.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is widely used in skincare products, such as moisturizers and lotions, where it provides a soft, non-greasy feel and enhances skin hydration.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is included in sunscreens and after-sun products, where it helps stabilize emulsions and ensures a smooth application on the skin.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is an ingredient in body creams and butters, where it improves spreadability, providing a luxurious texture and enhancing user experience.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in hair care products, such as conditioners and serums, where it provides smoothness and shine, making hair more manageable and frizz-free.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is applied in hair styling creams and sprays, where it offers flexible hold and prevents hair from becoming stiff or dry.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is incorporated into leave-in treatments, where it enhances conditioning and provides long-lasting softness.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in lip balms and lipsticks, where it imparts a creamy texture, making the product glide smoothly and feel pleasant on the lips.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a common component in foundations and face powders, where it improves texture and provides a matte, velvety finish.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is utilized in eye shadows and blushes, enhancing product spread and creating a smooth, even finish on the skin.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is found in household and industrial lubricants, where it reduces friction and wear, extending the life of machinery and equipment.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in metalworking fluids, where it provides lubrication and prevents rust, improving overall processing efficiency.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is incorporated into coatings and sealants, where it enhances adhesion and provides a smooth, durable finish.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is essential in agricultural formulations as an adjuvant, improving the spreadability and adherence of pesticides and herbicides on plant surfaces.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is applied in textile processing, where it softens fibers, improving fabric feel and quality in finished garments.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is included in adhesives and sealants, where it provides flexibility and improves bonding strength across different surfaces.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is found in candle formulations, where it improves the burn rate and provides a smooth, uniform appearance to the candle surface.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in polishes and surface treatments, providing a smooth application and adding a layer of shine and protection to treated surfaces.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is incorporated into car wax and polishes, where it helps achieve a glossy finish and protects surfaces from environmental wear.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used for products with long shelf life requirements.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid has oxidation stability.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid structure also increases dispersion power.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is found in pigments in oils and solvents.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid can be used for stabilization of mineral particles.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in cosmetic and industrial applications.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid should be kept in well-ventilated areas.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is an ingredient found in washing and cleaning products.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in many industrial areas.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is an extremely light liquid fatty acid.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in many skin care products
In addition, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a substance used in the manufacture of color cosmetic applications.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is ideal for use in soaps, shaving foams and liquid cleaners.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid has an easy-to-spread structure
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid offers a silky soft dry skin feel.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid provides thermal stability
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a substance that provides odor stability for a cosmetic formulation.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid increases dispersion power
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a unique blend of saturated C18 fatty acids.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used as a lubricant and plasticizer.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid has a light color.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid has little odour.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid has a nice, non-sticky feel.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a useful synthetic intermediate.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles.
Cosmetics and Personal Care:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid acts as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent in creams, lotions, and hair products.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid provides a non-greasy, smooth texture that improves product spreadability.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in lipsticks, sunscreens, and moisturizers for better stability and sensory performance.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's branched structure helps prevent crystallization, keeping formulations soft and stable over time.
Industrial Lubricants and Functional Fluids:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in the synthesis of branched fatty acid esters, which serve as lubricants and plasticizers.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid improves low-temperature fluidity and oxidative resistance compared to straight-chain fatty acid derivatives.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is applied in specialty lubricants for machinery, coatings, and polymer processing.
Coatings, Resins, and Adhesives:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid functions as a building block in resins and polymer formulations.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid adds flexibility, hydrophobicity, and chemical resistance to coatings and adhesives.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is commonly used in specialty paints and protective films, where durability and smooth finish are needed.
Surfactants and Specialty Chemicals:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid serves as an intermediate in the production of nonionic and cationic surfactants.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is used in cleaning and emulsifying agents that require stable branched structures.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid enhances performance in detergents, emulsifiers, and dispersants by improving solubility and surface activity.
Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is investigated as a potential lipid excipient in drug delivery systems due to its stability and biocompatibility.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid may be used in controlled-release formulations where branched fatty acids improve lipid matrix performance.
Food-Contact and Packaging Materials:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid derivatives are used in non-food contact lubricants, packaging coatings, or processing aids.
They provide barrier properties and oxidative stability to packaging materials.
Benefits of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Improved Sensory Properties:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid provides a non-greasy, smooth, and soft texture in cosmetic and personal care formulations.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's branched structure allows products such as creams and lotions to spread easily on the skin without leaving a heavy or waxy feeling.
Enhanced Stability:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid improves the oxidative stability of formulations compared to unsaturated fatty acids.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's resistance to rancidity and degradation extends the shelf life of cosmetics, lubricants, and coatings.
Reduced Crystallinity:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid prevents the formation of hard crystalline structures.
This property keeps cosmetic formulations soft and stable over time and ensures better performance in coatings and adhesives.
Better Low-Temperature Performance:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid enhances the fluidity of lubricants and esters at low temperatures.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's branched structure reduces solidification, allowing materials to remain workable in cold environments.
Improved Flexibility and Hydrophobicity:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid contributes to flexibility and water-repellent properties in resins, coatings, and polymers.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's presence increases durability, chemical resistance, and surface protection.
Versatility Across Applications:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid serves multiple industries, including cosmetics, lubricants, coatings, surfactants, and specialty chemicals.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's ability to perform in diverse applications adds significant value for manufacturers seeking multifunctional ingredients.
Compatibility with Sustainable Trends:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid can be produced from renewable sources and used in bio-based formulations.
This sustainability advantage aligns with consumer demand for environmentally friendly, clean-label products.
Production of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Raw Materials and Precursors:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is a branched-chain C18 fatty acid, structurally related to stearic acid.
The main starting materials for 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's production are long-chain hydrocarbons, fatty acids, or fatty alcohols derived from natural oils (such as palm oil, rapeseed oil, or tallow) or synthetic petrochemical feedstocks.
These precursors are chosen because they can be chemically modified to introduce branching in the carbon backbone.
Isomerization of Stearic Acid:
One of the most common routes for production is the isomerization of stearic acid (octadecanoic acid).
Through controlled catalytic rearrangements, the linear chain of stearic acid is transformed into a branched configuration.
Catalysts such as solid acids, zeolites, or metal catalysts may be used under elevated temperatures and pressures to achieve selective branching.
Oxidation of Branched Hydrocarbons:
Another route involves the oxidation of branched C18 hydrocarbons or fatty alcohols.
In this process, branched hydrocarbons are subjected to oxidation reactions (e.g., with oxygen, ozone, or permanganates) to form carboxylic acids.
This method allows better control over the position of branching and the overall yield of the target fatty acid.
Ester Hydrolysis Pathway:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid may also be obtained by hydrolysis of branched esters.
Branched esters can be synthesized first from fatty alcohols and then converted into the free acid form through saponification or acid-catalyzed hydrolysis.
This approach is used when esters themselves are valuable intermediates in the lubricant or surfactant industry.
Industrial Considerations:
Production requires temperature control to prevent over-decomposition or unwanted side reactions.
The degree and position of branching determine the physical properties of the acid, so process parameters are adjusted carefully to ensure consistency.
Modern processes aim to integrate green chemistry principles, using renewable feedstocks and environmentally friendly catalysts to reduce the environmental footprint.
Purification and Finishing:
Once synthesized, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is purified by distillation, crystallization, or solvent extraction to remove unreacted materials and by-products.
The final product is typically a white to off-white waxy solid, supplied as the free fatty acid or converted into salts/esters depending on application needs.
History of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid does not have a long traditional history of use like common linear fatty acids such as stearic acid, which have been known and applied since the 19th century in candle-making, soaps, and lubricants.
Instead, 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's development is closely tied to 20th-century advances in industrial organic chemistry, particularly the growing interest in branched-chain fatty acids and their unique physical properties.
During the mid-1900s, chemical researchers discovered that branching in long-chain fatty acids reduced crystallinity, lowered melting points, and improved oxidative stability—features that made them attractive for applications in cosmetics, lubricants, and polymers.
These insights were first applied commercially to isostearic acid, a related branched C18 fatty acid, which became widely produced and marketed by companies in Europe, Japan, and the United States starting in the 1960s–1970s.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid emerged as part of this wave of innovation, produced synthetically through controlled isomerization and oxidation processes rather than being directly isolated from natural fats and oils.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's potential was recognized in industries seeking value-added specialty ingredients, particularly in personal care, where the demand for smooth, non-greasy emollients grew rapidly in the late 20th century.
In parallel, the industrial lubricants and coatings sectors began experimenting with branched fatty acid derivatives to enhance low-temperature fluidity and oxidative resistance in specialty products.
By the 1990s and early 2000s, improvements in catalyst technology, green chemistry approaches, and bio-based feedstock utilization allowed for more efficient and sustainable production of 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid and similar branched acids.
Today, the history of 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid is still relatively short compared to other fatty acids, but it represents a clear example of how scientific innovation, consumer demand, and sustainability trends have converged to create a growing market for specialized fatty acid derivatives.
16-Methylheptadecanoic acid's trajectory mirrors the rise of specialty chemicals: moving from laboratory curiosity to industrial relevance, with applications that continue to expand in cosmetics, surfactants, and performance materials.
Handling and Storage of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Handling:
Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
Prevent formation of dust or aerosols during transfer or grinding.
Use only with adequate ventilation.
Do not ingest or inhale vapors/fumes at elevated temperatures.
Storage:
Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Keep away from strong oxidizing agents (e.g., peroxides, nitric acid).
Protect from direct sunlight, moisture, and excessive heat to avoid decomposition.
Recommended storage temperature: ambient conditions (15–25 °C).
Stability and Reactivity of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Stability:
Stable under normal handling and storage conditions.
Reactivity:
No dangerous reactions known under recommended use.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizers (e.g., chromates, permanganates), strong acids, and bases may initiate reactions.
Hazardous decomposition products:
Thermal decomposition may release carbon oxides (CO, CO₂) and hydrocarbon fragments.
Conditions to avoid:
Prolonged heating above decomposition temperature, open flames, and direct exposure to strong oxidizers.
First Aid Measures of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Inhalation:
If dust, fumes, or vapors are inhaled, remove person to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if respiratory irritation or discomfort persists.
Skin contact:
Wash with soap and plenty of water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Seek medical help if irritation develops.
Eye contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids.
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 assistance if large amounts are ingested.
Firefighting Measures of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or water spray (fog).
Unsuitable media:
Strong water jet may spread burning material.
Specific hazards:
Combustion produces dense smoke, carbon oxides, and potentially irritating vapors.
Protective equipment for firefighters:
Wear full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Cool nearby containers with water spray to prevent rupture from heat.
Accidental Release Measures of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Personal precautions:
Use personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, dust mask if needed).
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Avoid generating dust or aerosols.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent entry into drains, surface water, and soil.
Large spills may create slippery surfaces.
Methods for cleaning up:
Collect spilled material mechanically (shovel, sweep, vacuum) into appropriate containers for disposal.
Wash area with detergent and water after removal.
Dispose of in accordance with local/regional regulations.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Engineering controls:
Provide local exhaust ventilation or general dilution ventilation to minimize airborne exposure, especially during heating or processing.
Respiratory protection:
Not normally required at ambient conditions.
If dust or vapors are present above exposure limits, use a suitable NIOSH/EN-approved respirator.
Hand protection:
Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene).
Eye protection:
Use safety glasses with side shields or chemical splash goggles.
Skin and body protection:
Wear protective clothing as needed to prevent contact.
Hygiene measures:
Wash hands after handling, remove contaminated clothing, and do not eat, drink, or smoke in work areas.
Identifiers of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₆O₂
Molecular Weight: ~284.48 g/mol
EC Number: 250-962-3
PubChem CID: 3035096
CAS Number: 30399-84-9
EC Number: 250-187-1
Molecular Formula: C18H36O2
Molecular Weight: 284.48 g/mol
Chemical Class: Branched-chain saturated fatty acid (C18).
Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₆O₂
Molecular Weight: 284.48 g/mol
CAS Number: 506-30-9
EC Number: 250-962-3
PubChem CIDs: 91458
InChIKey: BJPOYWKNXLYDKB-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Properties of 16-Methylheptadecanoic Acid:
Molecular Weight: 284.5
XLogP3: 7.2
Exact Mass: 284.271530387
Monoisotopic Mass: 284.271530387
Topological Polar Surface Area: 37.3 Ų
Physical Description: Liquid
Boiling Point: 401.00 °C
Melting Point: 69.5 °C
Solubility: 0.007116 mg/L
LogP: 7.674
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 1
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 2
Rotatable Bond Count: 15
Heavy Atom Count: 20
Complexity: 212
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
Chemical Formula: C18H36O2
Molecular Weight: 284.48 g/mol
Common Name: 16-Methylheptadecanoic acid
Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Density: Approx. 0.85 g/cm³
Boiling Point: >300°C
Melting Point: -4°C
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and organic solvents
Flash Point: >200°C
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid strong oxidizing agents
Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions
Storage Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Vapor Pressure: Low
