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DESCRIPTION
Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO) is a chemical compound derived from castor oil, a vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis).
The hydrogenation process involves adding hydrogen atoms to the oil, altering its chemical structure and making it more saturated.
This process increases the oil’s stability, melting point, and resistance to oxidation.
Cas Number: 8001-78-3
SYNONYMS
Polyoxyl 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil,7YC686GQ8F,Cremophor RH40,CCRIS 6926,CREMOPHOR RH 410,CRODURET 40,Castor oil, hydrogenated, ethoxylated, HCO 40,Castor oil, hydrogenated, ethoxylated, HCO 50,Castor oil, hydrogenated, ethoxylated, HCO 60,Cremophor RH 40/60HCO 40,HCO 50,HCO 60,Hydrogenated castor oil, ethoxylated,KOLLIPHOR RH40,Nikkol HCO 60,PEG-100 Hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-16 Hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-20 Hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-200 Hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-30 Hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-35 Hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-45 Hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-5 Hydrogenated castor oil,PEG-80 Hydrogenated castor oil,POLYOXYL 40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL (II),POLYOXYL 40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL (MART.),Polyethylene glycol (100) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (16) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (200) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (25) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (30) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (35) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (45) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (5) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (54) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (55) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (60) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (7) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol (80) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyethylene glycol 2000 hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (100) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (16) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (200) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (30) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (35) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (40) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (45) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (5) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (54) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (55) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (60) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (7) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene (80) hydrogenated castor oil,Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil 60,TAGAT CH 40,UNII-02NG325BQG,UNII-0WZF1506N9,UNII-0ZNO9PJJ9J,UNII-43SW2U113W,UNII-7YC686GQ8F,UNII-MH590ECD4O,UNII-R07D3A9614,UNII-WE09129TH5
Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO) is a versatile chemical compound produced by the hydrogenation of castor oil, which is derived from the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis).
This modification significantly alters the chemical and physical properties of the oil, making it suitable for various industrial and commercial applications.
The hydrogenation process results in a product that is more stable, less prone to oxidation, and can be formulated into a wide range of materials, from lubricants to pharmaceuticals.
This article explores the properties, production, applications, and environmental considerations of HCO, highlighting its importance across multiple sectors, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, lubricants, and bioplastics.
Moreover, it discusses the economic implications, market trends, and the future of HCO as an environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-derived substances.
Castor oil is a unique vegetable oil, primarily composed of ricinoleic acid, which is known for its many industrial uses.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO) is produced through the hydrogenation of castor oil, which involves the addition of hydrogen to unsaturated fatty acids, thereby increasing the degree of saturation of the oil.
The result is a solid or semi-solid product with enhanced stability, making it ideal for specific applications where stability and high viscosity are required.
The modification of castor oil to HCO serves several purposes:
Increased shelf life due to better oxidative stability.
Altered physical properties, such as melting point and viscosity, making it suitable for different formulation types.
Improved resistance to environmental factors such as temperature and humidity.
This article aims to explore the various facets of HCO, from its chemical structure to its broad range of industrial applications, including its impact on the environment and market trends.
CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL
Hydrogenated Castor Oil is produced by subjecting castor oil to a hydrogenation process.
Castor oil itself is primarily composed of ricinoleic acid (a hydroxy fatty acid), which contains a hydroxyl group (-OH) on the 12th carbon atom.
When castor oil is hydrogenated, the unsaturated fatty acids in the oil undergo a chemical transformation where hydrogen atoms are added to the carbon-carbon double bonds, effectively converting them into single bonds and saturating the oil.
Hydrogenation Process:
The hydrogenation of castor oil typically occurs under high pressure and temperature, with a nickel catalyst. This process:
Converts the unsaturated fatty acids in castor oil into their corresponding saturated fatty acids (e.g., stearic acid, oleic acid).
Results in the formation of a product that is much more stable and solid at room temperature.
The degree of hydrogenation can be controlled to produce variations of HCO, ranging from a waxy solid to a semi-solid material, depending on the specific requirements of the application.
Key Chemical Changes:
Saturation of fatty acids: Increased hydrogen content makes the oil more saturated and less prone to oxidation.
Change in physical state: Hydrogenation can turn the oil from a liquid to a waxy, solid state.
Modification of functional groups: Hydrogenation reduces the number of reactive double bonds, which decreases the oil's susceptibility to rancidity.
Chemical Composition:
The fatty acid composition of HCO varies but typically includes saturated fatty acids like stearic acid and palmitic acid, while the amount of unsaturated ricinoleic acid is greatly reduced.
Synthesis of Hydrogenated Castor Oil
The synthesis of HCO is achieved through a catalytic hydrogenation process, where castor oil is exposed to hydrogen gas under high-pressure conditions.
The process usually involves the following steps:
Preparation of Castor Oil: The castor oil is refined to remove impurities such as free fatty acids, proteins, and other residues.
Hydrogenation Reaction: The refined oil is then subjected to a hydrogenation reaction in the presence of a nickel-based catalyst at temperatures ranging from 150°C to 250°C. The pressure can be as high as 1000 psi (pounds per square inch).
Separation and Purification: After hydrogenation, the oil is cooled, and the catalyst is removed.
The oil is then purified by distillation to remove any remaining by-products and ensure a high-quality final product.
Hydrogenation Variants:
The degree of hydrogenation can vary, which influences the texture, consistency, and chemical stability of the resulting HCO:
Partial Hydrogenation: Results in a product that remains semi-liquid and is used in cosmetic formulations where a specific viscosity is required.
Full Hydrogenation: Leads to a more solid wax-like product, often used in industrial applications.
Catalyst Selection:
Nickel-based catalysts are typically employed due to their effectiveness in breaking down the double bonds in the unsaturated fatty acids. However, newer methods use more sustainable catalysts to reduce environmental impact.
Physicochemical Properties of Hydrogenated Castor Oil
The hydrogenation of castor oil alters its physical and chemical properties, making it suitable for specific applications.
Physical Properties:
Melting Point: One of the most significant changes in HCO due to hydrogenation is an increase in the melting point.
Castor oil, a liquid at room temperature, becomes solid or semi-solid after hydrogenation.
The melting point ranges from 40°C to 85°C, depending on the extent of hydrogenation.
Viscosity: HCO tends to have a higher viscosity than unmodified castor oil, making it useful in formulations where thickening or stabilizing properties are required.
Color: Hydrogenated Castor Oil is typically white or pale yellow, whereas castor oil is a pale yellow or greenish color.
Solubility: HCO is only sparingly soluble in water but is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, chloroform, and acetone.
Chemical Stability:
Hydrogenation increases the chemical stability of the oil.
The saturation of fatty acids reduces the oil’s susceptibility to oxidative degradation, making it more durable over time.
Applications of Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Hydrogenated Castor Oil has a wide range of applications across various industries due to its unique properties.
Some of the key sectors include:
Pharmaceuticals:
HCO is commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry as:
Excipient in Formulations: It is employed in topical creams, ointments, and lotions due to its thickening, emulsifying, and stabilizing properties.
Drug Delivery Systems: HCO is used in drug delivery formulations to control the release of active ingredients, particularly in transdermal patches.
Capsules and Tablets: HCO serves as a lubricant and stabilizer in the formulation of pills and capsules.
Cosmetics and Personal Care:
HCO is an essential ingredient in many cosmetic products due to its emollient properties. It is used in:
Skin Creams and Lotions: Acts as a moisturizing agent, providing a smooth, non-greasy texture.
Hair Products: Used in shampoos and conditioners to improve texture and provide lubrication.
Makeup: Employed as a binder in products like lipsticks and foundations.
Lubricants and Industrial Applications:
HCO is widely used in manufacturing lubricants and greases.
Its high viscosity and chemical stability make it ideal for:
Industrial Lubricants: Used in machinery and automotive applications.
Plasticizers: Added to plastics to increase flexibility and reduce brittleness.
Coatings: HCO is used in paints and coatings as a stabilizer and to improve texture.
Food Industry:
In limited quantities, HCO is used in the food industry as a food additive and emulsifier, particularly in processed foods, though its use is regulated by authorities like the FDA.
Other Industrial Uses:
Polymer Production: HCO is used in the synthesis of polymers and resins, offering biodegradability and reducing reliance on petroleum-based chemicals.
Biodiesel: Castor oil, including hydrogenated forms, is being explored as a source of biofuel.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
HCO, derived from the castor plant, is considered more sustainable than petroleum-based alternatives.
The castor plant requires minimal water and grows well in arid regions, making it a potential crop for regions with water scarcity.
Hydrogenation, however, requires significant energy and the use of metal catalysts, which can have an environmental impact.
Recent innovations aim to optimize the hydrogenation process to minimize energy consumption and reduce the environmental footprint.
Additionally, HCO's biodegradability makes it an attractive alternative in industries aiming to reduce the environmental impact of synthetic chemicals.
Market Trends and Economic Impact
The global demand for HCO is increasing, particularly in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biodegradable products.
Market analysis indicates that the growth of the bio-based chemical industry is driving the demand for sustainable oils like castor oil and its derivatives.
The price of HCO is influenced by factors such as castor bean production, processing costs, and regional market trends.
Asia-Pacific regions are the largest producers, with countries like India being key players.
Challenges and Future Perspectives
Despite the widespread use of HCO, there are several challenges, including:
Cost of Production: Hydrogenation processes can be energy-intensive, leading to higher production costs.
Sustainability Concerns: The environmental impact of hydrogenation and the use of catalysts needs ongoing research.
The future of HCO looks promising, particularly with ongoing developments in green chemistry and efforts to make the hydrogenation process more sustainable.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a critical ingredient in a wide range of industries, offering a stable, versatile, and environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based oils.
Its applications continue to grow, driven by the demand for sustainable materials.
The future of HCO lies in continued innovation, focusing on more efficient production methods and expanding its use in new, eco-friendly applications.
SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL (HCO)
First aid measures:
Description of first aid measures:
General advice:
Consult a physician.
Show this safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
Move out of dangerous area:
If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air.
If not breathing, give artificial respiration.
Consult a physician.
In case of skin contact:
Take off contaminated clothing and shoes immediately.
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
Consult a physician.
In case of eye contact:
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician.
Continue rinsing eyes during transport to hospital.
If swallowed:
Do NOT induce vomiting.
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Rinse mouth with water.
Consult a physician.
Firefighting measures:
Extinguishing media:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas
Advice for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental release measures:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
Use personal protective equipment.
Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas.
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste.
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
Handling and storage:
Precautions for safe handling:
Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
Storage class (TRGS 510): 8A: Combustible, corrosive hazardous materials
Exposure controls/personal protection:
Control parameters:
Components with workplace control parameters
Contains no substances with occupational exposure limit values.
Exposure controls:
Appropriate engineering controls:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice.
Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
Personal protective equipment:
Eye/face protection:
Tightly fitting safety goggles.
Faceshield (8-inch minimum).
Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
Skin protection:
Handle with gloves.
Gloves must be inspected prior to use.
Use proper glove
removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product.
Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices.
Wash and dry hands.
Full contact:
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
Splash contact
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
It should not be construed as offering an approval for any specific use scenario.
Body Protection:
Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Respiratory protection:
Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a fullface respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls.
If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator.
Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Control of environmental exposure
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Stability and reactivity:
Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents:
Hazardous decomposition products:
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions.
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas.
Disposal considerations:
Waste treatment methods:
Product:
Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company.
Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
Contaminated packaging:
Dispose of as unused product
