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Octadecanoic acid, commonly known as stearic acid, is a saturated long-chain fatty acid derived from animal fats, vegetable oils, or synthesized chemically.
It is widely used in the production of soaps, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and various industrial applications for its lubricating and thickening properties.
Octadecanoic acid is valued for its versatility, stability, and non-toxic nature, making it a staple ingredient in numerous formulations.
CAS Number: 57-11-4
EC Number: 200-313-4
Molecular Formula: C18H36O2
Molecular Weight: 284.48 g/mol
Synonyms: Octadecanoic Acid, Stearic Acid, n-Octadecanoic Acid, 1-Octadecanoic Acid, Fatty Acid C18, Stearic Acid Powder, Stearic Acid Flakes, Saturated Fatty Acid, Industrial Grade Stearic Acid, Cosmetic Grade Stearic Acid, Pharmaceutical Grade Octadecanoic Acid, Lubricating Agent Stearic Acid, Octadecanoic Acid Thickener, Stearic Acid Emulsifier, Octadecanoic Acid for Soaps, Octadecanoic Acid for Rubber Processing
APPLICATIONS
Octadecanoic acid is widely used in the production of soaps and detergents as a key ingredient for its surfactant properties.
Octadecanoic acid is included in cosmetic formulations, such as creams, lotions, and lipsticks, for its emulsifying and thickening effects.
Octadecanoic acid is employed in pharmaceutical formulations as a lubricant and excipient in tablet manufacturing.
Octadecanoic acid is utilized in rubber processing as an activator and lubricant to improve product performance.
Octadecanoic acid is found in candle manufacturing to enhance hardness and improve burn quality.
Octadecanoic acid is used in food-grade applications, such as food additives and coatings, for its stabilizing properties.
Octadecanoic acid is incorporated into personal care products, such as deodorants and shaving creams, for its stabilizing and moisturizing effects.
Octadecanoic acid is added to industrial lubricants and greases to improve viscosity and reduce friction.
Octadecanoic acid is utilized in textile processing as a softening and water-repellent agent.
Octadecanoic acid is applied in the production of plastics and resins to improve mold release and processing efficiency.
Octadecanoic acid is employed in adhesives and sealants as a thickener and stabilizer.
Octadecanoic acid is used in eco-friendly formulations due to its biodegradable nature.
Octadecanoic acid is included in paints and coatings to improve texture and enhance water resistance.
Octadecanoic acid is applied in animal feed formulations as an energy source and emulsifier.
Octadecanoic acid is utilized in bio-lubricants for its renewable and environmentally friendly properties.
Octadecanoic acid, also known as stearic acid, is widely used in the production of soaps and detergents due to its ability to create a stable foam and improve cleansing properties.
Octadecanoic acid is incorporated into cosmetics and personal care products like creams, lotions, and deodorants, where it acts as an emulsifier, helping to blend water and oils.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the manufacturing of candles, where it helps improve the texture and hardness of the final product.
Octadecanoic acid is employed in the food industry as a food additive (E570), where it is used as a stabilizer and emulsifier in products like margarine, chocolate, and other processed foods.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the formulation of lubricants and greases to enhance their viscosity, improve their lubricating properties, and reduce friction.
Octadecanoic acid is applied in the production of surfactants for industrial cleaning products, improving their ability to remove oils and dirt from surfaces.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the production of rubber products, where it serves as a softening agent and helps improve the durability of rubber formulations.
Octadecanoic acid is incorporated into plastics, particularly in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), where it serves as a stabilizer and lubricant.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the pharmaceutical industry to create emulsions and ointments, improving the texture and stability of topical medications.
Octadecanoic acid is included in hair care products such as shampoos and conditioners to enhance the product's smooth application and provide conditioning benefits to the hair.
Octadecanoic acid is employed in the formulation of high-quality inks, providing improved viscosity and stability for the final product.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the production of detergents for washing machine applications to enhance cleaning power and provide an improved texture to the detergent.
Octadecanoic acid is included in industrial coatings, such as paint, for its ability to improve the texture, consistency, and smoothness of the final coating.
Octadecanoic acid is applied in metalworking as a lubricant to reduce friction and improve the performance of cutting tools.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the production of bio-based plastics, contributing to more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-based plastics.
Octadecanoic acid is incorporated into fire-retardant materials to improve their resistance to heat and flames.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the manufacturing of plasticizers for polymers, improving flexibility and durability.
Octadecanoic acid is employed in the development of agricultural chemicals, such as herbicides and pesticides, to enhance the effectiveness and stability of formulations.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the production of textile finishing agents, improving fabric softness and making textiles more resistant to wrinkles.
Octadecanoic acid is applied in pharmaceutical formulations as a binder or excipient in tablet production, ensuring proper cohesion of the tablet ingredients.
Octadecanoic acid is included in food packaging materials to improve the flexibility and barrier properties of the packaging.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the manufacturing of paints and coatings, where it helps improve consistency, texture, and durability.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the production of biodegradable plastics, contributing to the creation of environmentally friendly alternatives.
Octadecanoic acid is incorporated into surfactant formulations in industrial applications to enhance the wetting, foaming, and emulsifying capabilities of the product.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the formulation of dietary supplements and vitamins, contributing to the stabilization and delivery of fat-soluble vitamins.
DESCRIPTION
Octadecanoic acid is a white, waxy solid available in flakes, beads, or powder form.
This saturated fatty acid is insoluble in water but soluble in alcohols and organic solvents, making it suitable for diverse formulations.
Octadecanoic acid has a mild, characteristic odor and a neutral taste, ensuring compatibility with cosmetic and food products.
Octadecanoic acid exhibits excellent thermal and oxidative stability, making it ideal for industrial applications.
This compound is biodegradable and derived from natural sources, aligning with sustainable product development trends.
Octadecanoic acid enhances the viscosity, stability, and sensory properties of formulations in which it is included.
Octadecanoic acid, also known as stearic acid, is a long-chain saturated fatty acid with the chemical formula C18H36O2, and it is commonly found in animal fats and vegetable oils.
Octadecanoic acid is a solid at room temperature, appearing as a waxy substance that is colorless or white and has a faint odor.
Octadecanoic acid is one of the most common fatty acids found in nature, making up a significant portion of animal and plant lipids, particularly in palm oil and shea butter.
Octadecanoic acid is widely used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in food products, particularly in confectionery and processed foods, to help maintain texture and prevent separation.
Octadecanoic acid is known for its ability to improve the hardness, texture, and stability of products like soaps, cosmetics, and candles.
Octadecanoic acid is employed in the production of surfactants, where it helps to enhance the cleaning and foaming properties of detergents and cleaning agents.
Octadecanoic acid is used as a lubricant in a variety of industrial applications, reducing friction and wear in machinery and metalworking.
Octadecanoic acid is an important raw material in the production of esters, which are widely used in industrial applications as plasticizers, lubricants, and emulsifiers.
Octadecanoic acid is a key ingredient in the formulation of pharmaceuticals, where it is used as an excipient to create stable and effective ointments, creams, and emulsions.
Octadecanoic acid is biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly option for a variety of industrial and consumer products.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Formula: C18H36O2
Molecular Weight: 284.48 g/mol
Common Name: Octadecanoic Acid (Stearic Acid)
Appearance: White, waxy solid (flakes, beads, or powder)
Odor: Mild, characteristic
Melting Point: 69–70°C
Boiling Point: Approx. 361°C
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohols and organic solvents
Density: Approx. 0.84 g/cm³ (at 20°C)
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid strong oxidizing agents
Chemical Stability: Stable in a wide pH range (3–10)
Storage Temperature: Store at 15–30°C in a cool, dry place
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
If Octadecanoic acid dust is inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air immediately.
If breathing difficulties persist, seek medical attention.
If the person is not breathing, administer artificial respiration.
Keep the affected person warm and at rest.
Skin Contact:
Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
If skin irritation or rash develops, seek medical attention.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Eye Contact:
Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids.
Seek immediate medical attention if irritation or redness persists.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing.
Ingestion:
If Octadecanoic acid is ingested in large amounts, rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical personnel.
Seek medical attention if discomfort or symptoms persist.
If the person is conscious, give small sips of water to drink.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
No specific antidote is required.
Provide supportive care as needed.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Personal Protection:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing, when handling Octadecanoic acid.
Avoid generating dust or aerosols during handling.
Ventilation:
Ensure proper ventilation to minimize exposure to airborne particles.
Use local exhaust systems if necessary.
Avoidance:
Avoid direct contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Contain spills to prevent further release.
Use inert absorbent materials (e.g., sand, vermiculite) to collect spilled material.
Dispose of waste according to local regulations.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, moisture, and incompatible materials.
Keep containers tightly closed and properly labeled.
Protect from high humidity and direct sunlight to maintain stability.
Handling Cautions:
Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture to prevent clumping or degradation.
Ensure containers are sealed properly to maintain product integrity.
