PRODUCTS

OCTADECANOIC ACID

Octadecanoic acid is also used as a mold release for foam latex that is baked in stone molds.
Octadecanoic acid functions as a lubricant, binder, and defoamer.
Octadecanoic acid is used as a softener in chewing gum base.

CAS Number: 57-11-4
EC Number (EINECS): 200-313-4
Molecular Formula: C18H36O2 / CH3(CH2)16COOH
Molecular Weight: ~284.48 g/mol

SYNONYMS:
Stearic acid, n-Octadecanoic acid, Octadecanoic acid, 1-Heptadecanecarboxylic acid, Humko Industrene R, Hydrofol Acid 150, Hystrene S-97, Hystrene T-70, Hystrene 80, Industrene R, Kam 1000, Neo-Fat 18, Stearex Beads, Stearophanic acid, Steric acid, Vanicol, n-Octadecylic acid, Adeka Fatty Acid SA 910, Emersol 120, Century 1240, Cetylacetic acid, Loxiol G 20, Lunac S 40, Tsubaki, Vis-Plus, SA 400 (fatty acid), stearic acid, Octadecanoic acid, 57-11-4, n-Octadecanoic acid, Stearophanic acid, Stearex Beads, Cetylacetic acid, 1-Heptadecanecarboxylic acid, Pearl stearic, Industrene R, Octadecansaeure, Stearinsaeure, Vanicol, Hydrofol Acid 150, Century 1240, Glycon DP, Glycon TP, Humko Industrene R, Formula 300, Hydrofol 1895, Hystrene 7018, Hystrene 9718, Glycon S-80, Glycon S-90, octadecoic acid, Tegostearic 254, Tegostearic 255, Tegostearic 272, Hystrene 80, Hydrofol acid 1655, Hydrofol acid 1855, Industrene 5016, Dar-chem 14, Emersol 120, Emersol 132, Hystrene 4516, Hystrene 5016, Groco 54, Groco 55, Groco 55L, Groco 58, Groco 59, Glycon S-70, Industrene 8718, Industrene 9018, Emersol 150, Kam 1000, Barolub FTA, FEMA No. 3035, Acidum stearinicul, HY-Phi 1199, HY-Phi 1205, HY-Phi 1303, HY-Phi 1401, Kam 2000, Kam 3000, C18:0, Century 1210, Stearic acid 50, Stearic acid, pure, PD 185, NAA 173, Emersol 153NF, Dervacid 3155, Purified stearic acid, Adeka sa 300, Edenor htict-n, Stearic acid 70, 4ELV7Z65AP, NSC-25956, Sterene 60b, Sterene 60r, Pristerene 4910, Pristerene 4916, Pristerene 4981, Pristerine 4989, Sterene 460, DTXSID8021642, Hyfac 410, Hyfac 420, Hyfac 421, Hyfac 422, Prifac 5905, NSC-261168, DTXCID301642, CHEBI:28842, 200-313-4, Batana, tooth powder, Himalayan Scrub, Papaya Enzyme, Body Scrub, Body Sprays, Doctor Plus, Body Gel, Obeo Baby Bubble, Jinhwagwangsu Hair, hydron;octadecanoate, Avocado Candy Scrub, Jinhwagwangsu Bubble, fatty acid 18:0, Turmeric Scrub Cream, RefChem:6691, Vaseline Moisturizing Cream, Hair Removal Cream For Men, Turmeric Mud Film Vitamin C, Intimate After Shave For Women, CELLBN FIRST CARE CLEANSER, ZENOL POWERFULX RECOVERYCREAM, 680-589-4, Stearate, Hystrene S-97, Hystrene T-70, Steric acid, Caswell No. 801D, Oktadekansaeure, acide stearique, acide octadecanoique, Hydrofol Acid 150 (VAN), MFCD00002752, CCRIS 2305, Prifac 2918, HSDB 2000, Vis-Plus, EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 079082, Stearic Acid Cherry, Edenor C18, CH3-[CH2]16-COOH, Loxiol G 20, Century 1220, Century 1230, Emersol 6349, AI3-00909, Lunac S 20, Lunac S 40, Hydrofol Acid 1895, CHEMBL46403, NSC25956, Acidum stearicum 50, FA 18:0, NCGC00091596-02, Stearicacid, Lunac, CAS-57-11-4, Isostearic acid EX, 18639-67-3, Haimaric MKH(R), Prisorine 3501, Prisorine 3502, Prisorine 3508, Emersol 871, Emersol 875, Emery 875D, Hystrene 9718NFFG, Emery 871, Unimac 5680, C-Lube 10, EINECS 200-313-4, Stearic acid [JAN:NF], NSC 25956, UNII-4ELV7Z65AP, BRN 0608585, Stearophanate, Promulsin, Stearex, Tsubaki, n-Octadecanoate, tearic acid, Bassinic acid, Lactaric acid, Talgic acid, Stearic acid?, 1hmr, 1hmt, 4fnn, Kiri stearic acid, Stearic Acid(Food Addtive/Pharmaceutical Excipient/Cosmetic/Non-toxic plastic additives, Lunac YA, Stearic acid CRS, n-Octadecylic acid, Palmitostearic acid, Stearic acid, CP, EINECS 250-178-0, F 3 (lubricant), Industrene 4518, Nonsoul SK 1, Pristerene 4900, Pristerene 4904, Pristerene 4963, Pristerene 9429, Pristerene 9559, Hystrene S 97, Hystrene T 70, Edenor ST 1, Stearic acid (TN), Sunfat 18S, Emersol 153, Selosol 920, Industrene 5016K, Hystrene 9718NF, Kortacid 1895, Radiacid 0427, Edenor ST 20, Lunac 30, Serfax MT 90, Stearic acid_ravikumar, Unister NAA 180, Century 1224, Edenor HT-JG 60, Lunac S 90KC, Stearic acid (8CI), Stearic acid, puriss., Hystrene 7018 FG, Lunac S 30, Lunac S 50, Lunac S 90, Lunac S 98, 3v2p, 875D, 1-Heptadecanecarboxylate, Industrene 7018 FG, AFCO-Chem B 65, Heptadecanecarboxylic acid, Edenor C 18/98, Octadecanoic acid (9CI), Stearic acid, >=98%, SCHEMBL659, Hystrene 9718 NF FG, bmse000485, STEARIC ACID [II], STEARIC ACID [MI], EC 200-313-4, Emery 400 (Salt/Mix), STEARIC ACID [DSC], STEARIC ACID [JAN], Stearic acid (JP15/NF), Stearic acid (JP18/NF), Emersol 110 (Salt/Mix), STEARIC ACID [FHFI], STEARIC ACID [HSDB], SCHEMBL56011, Stearic acid (reagent grade), STEARIC ACID [VANDF], 4-02-00-01206 (Beilstein Handbook Reference), WLN: QV17, SCHEMBL249583, STEARIC ACID [MART.], STEARIC ACID [USP-RS], STEARIC ACID [WHO-DD], 17FA, GTPL3377, orb1304721, SCHEMBL3125045, SCHEMBL6047730, WO 2, SCHEMBL10611257, UNII-X33R8U0062, MSK1716, Nonsoul SN 1 (Sodium salt), SNA-2000 (Sodium salt), Stearic acid, analytical standard, VLZ 200, HMS5085M19, PURIFIED STEARIC ACID [NF], Stearic acid, reagent grade, 95%, BB_NC-02187, HY-B2219, STEARIC ACID [EP MONOGRAPH], Tox21_111154, Tox21_201887, Tox21_300562, BBL012224, BDBM50240485, EBC-26446, LMFA01010018, s5733, SA 200, SBB060276, Stearic acid, >=95%, FCC, FG, STL163565, AKOS005716958, Tox21_111154_1, CCG-267314, DB03193, FA 1655, FS14761, X33R8U0062, NCGC00091596-01, NCGC00091596-03, NCGC00091596-04, NCGC00091596-05, NCGC00091596-07, NCGC00254456-01, NCGC00259436-01, BP-14047, E570, MSK1716-1000, ST023799, VS-03242, Stearic acid, puriss., >=98.5% (GC), Stearic acid, SAJ first grade, >=90.0%, CS-0021598, G 270, NS00010335, S 300, S0163, EN300-19730, Stearic acid, SAJ special grade, >=95.0%, Stearic acid, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 94%, 400JB9103-88, A 1760, C01530, D00119, EC 250-178-0, F70008, SBI-0633521.0002, Stearic acid 50, tested according to Ph.Eur., F237888, Octadecanoic acid Solution in Hexane, 1000?g/mL, Q209685, SR-01000944717, Melting Point Standard 69-71C, analytical standard, SR-01000944717-1, Stearic acid, Grade I, >=98.5% (capillary GC), Stearic acid, SAJ first grade, >=90.0%, powder, F0001-1489, STEARIC ACID (CONSTITUENT OF SAW PALMETTO) [DSC], Stearic acid, certified reference material, TraceCERT(R), Z104474964, CD7993EA-AD14-452A-A907-33376CC98790, Stearic acid, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard, Stearic acid, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard, Stearic Acid, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard, Certified Reference Material, InChI=1/C18H36O2/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-18(19)20/h2-17H2,1H3,(H,19,20, Stearic acid, n-Octadecanoic acid, Humko Industrene R, Hydrofol Acid 150, Hystrene S-97, Hystrene T-70, Hystrene 80, Industrene R, Kam 1000, Kam 2000, Kam 3000, Neo-Fat 18, Neo-Fat 18-53, Neo-Fat 18-54, Neo-Fat 18-55, Neo-Fat 18-59, NAA 173, PD 185, Stearex Beads, Stearophanic acid, Steric acid, Vanicol, 1-Heptadecanecarboxylic acid, Heptadecanecarboxylic acid, Neo-fat 18-61, Pearl stearic, Century 1240, Dar-chem 14, Emersol 120, Emersol 132, Emersol 150, Formula 300, Glycon DP, Glycon TP, Glycon S-70, Glycon S-80, Glycon S-90, Groco 54, Groco 55, Groco 55L, Groco 58, Groco 59, Hy-phi 1199, Hy-phi 1205, Hy-phi 1303, Hy-phi 1401, Hydrofol acid 1655, Hydrofol acid 1855, Hydrofol 1895, Hystrene 4516, Hystrene 5016, Hystrene 7018, Hystrene 9718, Industrene 5016, Neo-Fat 18-S, Tegostearic 254, Tegostearic 255, Tegostearic 272, Cetylacetic acid, Industrene 8718, Industrene 9018, Barolub FTA, Loxiol G 20, Lunac S 20, Emersol 153, Century 1210, Century 1220, Century 1230, Emersol 6349, Hystrene 7018 FG, Hystrene 9718 NF FG, Industrene 4518, Industrene 7018 FG, n-Octadecylic acid, Pristerene 4904, Promulsin, Proviscol wax, Stearex, Tsubaki, Vis-Plus, Prifac 2918, Adeka Fatty Acid SA 910, Century 1224, Edenor C18, Hydrofol Acid 1895, Kiri stearic acid, Lunac S 40, SA 400 (fatty acid), WO 2 (fatty acid), Octadecanoic acid (stearic acid), Emersol 110 (Salt/Mix), Emery 400 (Salt/Mix), (E)-octadec-2-enoic acid, OCTADECENOIC ACID, 26764-26-1, fatty acid 18:1, RefChem:855766, CHEBI:25634, DTXSID80865316, DTXCID401774868, 247-991-8, trans-2-octadecenoic acid, 2-Octadecenoic acid, 2825-79-8, (E)-2-octadecenoic acid, trans-2-oleic acid, octadec-2-enoic acid, trans-octadec-2-enoic acid, 27251-59-8, CHEMBL4292703, 2Z-octadecenoic acid, C18:1n-16, trans-2-Octadecenoicacid, NSC931, Octadecenoic acid, (E)-, (2E)-octadec-2-enoic acid, 2-Octadecensaeure, 2-octadecenic acid, Octadec-2-ensaeure, Octadec-2t-ensaeure, octadec-2t-enoic acid, starbld0007012, 2-trans-octadecenoic acid, SCHEMBL41749, orb2943909, SCHEMBL6422860, 18:1 (n-16), trans, C18:1 (n-16), trans, CHEBI:50572, CHEBI:50573, LKOVPWSSZFDYPG-WUKNDPDISA-N, trans-Heptadecen-(1)-carbonsaeure, BDBM50466179, LMFA01030062, HY-W749928, C18:1, n-16, G66943, Q27122121, Q27122122, OCTADECANE, Octadecanoic acid, C18:0, Stearic, Steric acid, TRIPLE PRESSED STEARIC ACID, 1800, Stearil Acid, YZS, 1865

Octadecanoic acid is an octadecenoic acid with the double bond at position 2.
Octadecanoic acid is an octadecenoic acid and an alpha,beta-unsaturated monocarboxylic acid.
Octadecanoic acid derives from a hydride of an octadec-2-ene.

Octadecanoic acid has been reported in Trichoderma virens, Populus nigra, and other organisms with data available.
Octadecanoic acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid.
It is also called Octadecanoic acid or Stearophanic acid.

Octadecanoic acid is usually found in various plants and animal fats.
Octadecanoic acid is majorly found as a component of shea butter and cocoa butter.
The chemical formula of Octadecanoic acid is C18H36O2.

In its solid form, Octadecanoic acid appears as a white solid and has a mild pungent, oily odour.
Octadecanoic acid floats on water.
Octadecanoic acid functions as a plant metabolite, an algal metabolite, a Daphnia magna metabolite, and a human metabolite.

Octadecanoic acid is derived from an octadecane.
Octadecanoic acid is also produced biosynthetically from carbohydrates through the synthesis of fatty acid machinery.
Octadecanoic acid is an ingredient found in topical products as a skin protectant.

Octadecanoic acid is a natural fatty acid occurring in vegetable fats.
Octadecanoic acid is anionic oil-in-water emulsifier.
Octadecanoic acid is one of several major long-chain fatty acids comprising oils and fats.

Octadecanoic acid is presented in animal fats, oil and some kinds of vegetable oils as wellin the form of glycerides.
These oils, after hydrolysis, produce the Octadecanoic acid.
Octadecanoic acid is a fatty acid widely existing in nature and has the general chemical properties of carboxylic acids.

Almost all kinds of fat and oil contain certain amount of Octadecanoic acid with the content in the animal fats being relative high.
For example, the content in the butter can reach up to 24% while the content in vegetable oil is relative low with the value in tea oil being 0.8% and the oil in palm being 6%.

However, the content in cocoa can reach as high as 34%.
There are two major approaches for industrial production of Octadecanoic acid, namely fractionation and compression method.
Add decomposition agent to the hydrogenated oil, and then hydrolyze to give the crude fatty acid, further go through washing with water, distillation, bleaching to obtain the finished products with glycerol as the byproduct.

Most domestic manufacturers use animal fat for production.
Some kinds of production technology will result in the incompletion of the distillation of fatty acid which produce stimulating odor at the time of the plastic processing and high temperatures.

Although these odor is of no toxic but they will have certain effect on the working conditions and the natural environment.
Octadecanoic acid (E number E570) is found in some foods.
Octadecanoic acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid.

Octadecanoic acid is a major component of cocoa butter and has also been found in beef fat and vegetable oils.
Unlike many long-chain saturated fatty acids, dietary Octadecanoic acid does not induce hypercholesterolemia or raise LDL-cholesterol.
Octadecanoic acid is the saturated fatty acid with an 18 carbon chain and has the IUPAC name octadecanoic acid.

Octadecanoic acid is a waxy solid, and its chemical formula is CH3(CH2)16CO2H.
Octadecanoic acid's name comes from the Greek word στ?αρ "stéar", which means tallow.
The salts and esters of Octadecanoic acid are called stearates.

Octadecanoic acid is one of the most common saturated fatty acids found in nature following palmitic acid.
Generally applications of Octadecanoic acid exploit its bifunctional character, with a polar head group that can be attached to metal cations and a nonpolar chain that confers solubility in organic solvents.

The combination leads to uses as a surfactant and softening agent.
Octadecanoic acid undergoes the typical reactions of saturated carboxylic acids, notably reduction to stearyl alcohol, and esterification with a range of alcohols.

Fatty acids are classic components of candle - making.
Octadecanoic acid is a C18 straight-chain saturated fatty acid component of many animal and vegetable lipids.
As well as in the diet, Octadecanoic acid is used in hardening soaps, softening plastics and in making cosmetics, candles and plastics.

Octadecanoic acid, also known as stearate or stearic acid, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as long-chain fatty acids.
These are fatty acids with an aliphatic tail that contains between 13 and 21 carbon atoms.
Octadecanoic acid is a very hydrophobic molecule, practically insoluble in water, and relatively neutral.

Octadecanoic acid is a waxy solid and is one of the most common saturated fatty acids found in nature (being a close second to palmitic acid).
The triglyceride derived from three molecules of Octadecanoic acid is called stearin.
Octadecanoic acid is obtained from fats and oils by the saponification of the triglycerides, like stearin, using hot water.

Octadecanoic acid exists in all living organisms, ranging from bacteria to humans.
Octadecanoic acid has been detected, but not quantified in, several different foods, such as sweet bay, rose hips, muscadine grapes, pummelo, and garland chrysanthemums.

Fats and oils rich in Octadecanoic acid are more abundant in animal fat (up to 30%) than in vegetable fat (typically <5%).
The important exceptions are the foods cocoa butter and shea butter, where the Octadecanoic acid content (as a triglyceride) is 28‚Äì45%.
In terms of its biosynthesis, Octadecanoic acid is produced from carbohydrates via the fatty acid synthesis machinery wherein acetyl-CoA contributes two-carbon building blocks.

Octadecanoic acid, formally stearic acid, is a fatty acid that is present as a component of triglyceride esters in many natural sources.
Octadecanoic acid occurs most widely in animal fats and products made from them such as butterfat, cheeses, and tallow.
Triglycerides in plant-based materials such as palm and coconut oil and cocoa and shea butter also contain Octadecanoic acid.

Octadecanoic acid appeared in the chemical literature in 1879, when Thomas Carnelley* and W. Carleton Williams at Owens College (Manchester, UK) determined its boiling point and those of other chemicals by a curious method that involved measuring the melting points of their salts.
Strangely titled “On the boiling points of certain metals and metallic salts” (“melting points” was probably meant), the article reported boiling points that are close to today’s accepted values.

On the other hand, an 1894 article by W. E. Garrigues at Duquesne Chemical Laboratory (Pittsburgh) discussed the difficulties of measuring the melting points of fatty substances, which he called “candle material”.
Adapting a technique used to measure the melting temperatures of paraffin waxes produced in oil refineries, Garrigues went to great lengths to determine the melting points of stearic, palmitic1, and oleic2 acids and obtained remarkably reproducible results.

The only problem was that his value for Octadecanoic acid’s melting point was ≈15 °C lower than the one that eventually was measured correctly.
Octadecanoic acid and its derivatives are found in dozens of food and household products.
In addition to the foods mentioned above, fats (triglycerides) containing Octadecanoic acid are used in manufacturing baked goods, ice cream, candies, and other desserts.

Because Octadecanoic acid is a saturated fatty acid, many consumers avoid consuming foods that contain it and its cousins, especially palmitic acid.
Octadecanoic acid salts and esters are ingredients of a wide range of cosmetics, soaps, detergents, and other familiar products.

In industry, many of the same compounds are used in lubricants, textile softeners, casting materials (e.g., plaster), polishes, and of course, candles.
Octadecanoic acid is a solid carboxylic acid present in fats and oils as the glyceride.

Octadecanoic acid, systematically named stearic acid, is a long-chain saturated fatty acid with the molecular formula C₁₈H₃₆O₂ and a molecular weight of 284.48 g/mol.

Octadecanoic acid appears as a white, waxy solid at room temperature, with a melting point of 69–70 °C and a boiling point of approximately 361 °C at standard pressure; it is practically insoluble in water (solubility <0.001 g/100 mL at 20 °C) but readily soluble in ethanol, ether, and chloroform.

Naturally occurring in many animal and plant lipids, Octadecanoic acid constitutes a significant portion of fats such as beef tallow (up to 24%), cocoa butter (around 34%), lard, butter, and shea butter, where it serves as an energy storage molecule and structural component in cell membranes.

Commercially, Octadecanoic acid is produced primarily through the hydrolysis of animal fats or vegetable oils followed by fractional distillation, or via the hydrogenation of unsaturated C18 fatty acids (like oleic acid) derived from sources such as palm, soybean, or cottonseed oils, yielding a high-purity product often graded by iodine value to indicate saturation level.

This process ensures a vegetable-derived version suitable for vegan applications, though animal-sourced variants remain common in certain industries.
Octadecanoic acid comes from many animal and vegetable fats and oils.

Octadecanoic acid is a waxy solid.
Octadecanoic acid's name comes from the Greek word stéar (genitive: stéatos), which means tallow.
Octadecanoic acid is useful as an ingredient in making candles, soaps, plastics, oil pastels and cosmetics, and for softening rubber.

Octadecanoic acid is used to harden soaps, particularly those made with vegetable oil.
Fatty acids are a carboxylic acid with a long unbranched aliphatic tail (chain), which is either saturated or unsaturated.
Fatty acids derived from natural fats and oils may be assumed to have at least 8 carbon atoms.

Most of the natural fatty acids have an even number of carbon atoms, because their biosynthesis involves acetyl-CoA, a coenzyme carrying a two-carbon-atom group.
Octadecanoic acid, scientifically known as stearic Acid and identified by CAS number 57-11-4, is a critical saturated fatty acid widely recognized for its diverse industrial applications.

USES and APPLICATIONS of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid serves as a versatile additive in various industrial processes due to its lubricating, stabilizing, and emulsifying properties.
In manufacturing, Octadecanoic acid is commonly employed as a lubricant and release agent, particularly in metalworking and plastics molding, where it prevents adhesion and facilitates smooth processing.

For instance, in plastics production, Octadecanoic acid acts as a mold release agent to avoid sticking to metallic molds, thereby maintaining equipment integrity and product quality.
In the rubber and plastics industries, Octadecanoic acid functions as a softening agent and acid scavenger, enhancing material processability and durability.

During tire production, Octadecanoic acid improves the dispersion of fillers like carbon black, resulting in uniform textures and better wear resistance in the final products.
Typical usage levels in rubber compounding range from 1% to 3%, where Octadecanoic acid reduces friction between rubber molecules and aids in vulcanization as an activator.

Pharmaceutical manufacturing utilizes Octadecanoic acid and its derivatives, such as magnesium stearate, as excipients to improve tablet formulation and production efficiency.
Magnesium stearate, derived from Octadecanoic acid, serves as a lubricant and flow agent at concentrations of 0.5% to 2%, reducing friction during compression and preventing sticking to equipment, which ensures consistent tablet weight and size.

This application enhances powder flowability, with optimal performance observed up to 1–2 wt.% addition before diminishing returns.
Niche industrial applications include Octadecanoic acid's use in candle production to increase hardness and opacity, typically added at 5–10% of the wax weight for improved stability and mold release.

In explosives and pyrotechnics, Octadecanoic acid acts as a binder to enhance formulation cohesion.
For textiles, Octadecanoic acid functions as a waterproofing agent by forming hydrophobic coatings on fibers, improving fabric resistance to moisture.

In environmental applications, Octadecanoic acid contributes to the development of biodegradable plastics as a compatibilizer, particularly when grafted onto starch to improve interfacial adhesion in blends like linear low-density polyethylene/thermoplastic starch.
This modification enhances tensile strength and reduces phase separation, promoting sustainable material properties.

Globally, industrial applications represent a major portion of Octadecanoic acid consumption, with the plastics segment alone accounting for about 25% of the market in 2024, alongside significant shares in rubber processing and lubricants.
In fire works, Octadecanoic acid is often used to coat metal powders such as aluminium and iron.

This prevents oxidation, allowing compositions to be stored for a longer period of time.
Octadecanoic acid is a common lubricant during injection molding and pressing of ceramic powders.
Octadecanoic acid is also used as a mold release for foam latex that is baked in stone molds.

Octadecanoic acid is a fatty acid that is a mixture of solid organic acids obtained principally from Octadecanoic acid and palmitic acid.
Octadecanoic acid is practi- cally insoluble in water.

Octadecanoic acid functions as a lubricant, binder, and defoamer.
Octadecanoic acid is used as a softener in chewing gum base.
Uses of Octadecanoic acid: Pharmaceutic aid (emulsion adjunct); pharmaceutic aid (tablet and/or capsule lubricant).

Octadecanoic acid is an emulsifier and thickening agent found in many vegetable fats.
Octadecanoic acid is the main ingredient used in making bar soaps and lubricants.
Octadecanoic acid occurs naturally in butter acids, tallow, cascarilla bark, and in other animal fats and oils.

Octadecanoic acid may cause allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin and is considered somewhat comedogenic.
Octadecanoic acid is widely used in cosmetics, plastics plasticizers, mold release agents, stabilizers, surfactants, rubber vulcanization accelerator, waterproof agent, polishing agent, metal soap, metal mineral flotation agents, softeners and pharmaceuticals as well as other organic chemicals.

Octadecanoic acid can also be used as the solvents of oil-soluble paint, crayons lubrication agent, stencil lighting agent and the emulsifier of Octadecanoic acid glyceride.

Octadecanoic acid can also be widely used in the manufacturing of PVC pipe, sheet material, profiles and film and is the PVC heat stabilizers with good lubricity and excellent stability against light and heat.
In the application of polyvinyl chloride pipe, Octadecanoic acid helps prevent the "coke" during the processing and is effective heat stabilizer during PVC film processing while also preventing the discoloration of the finished film discoloration caused by exposure.

Octadecanoic acid has become the additive for lubrication, plasticization and stabilization of the filled masterbatch.
Octadecanoic acid can effectively improve the coating activating effect of inorganic powder and increase the flow rate of materials.

When there is demand for a large flow rate of the melt for material with inorganic powder accounting for the most part, an appropriate increase in the content of Octadecanoic acid can significantly increase the melt flow rate of material.
However, the amount of Octadecanoic acid used in filled masterbatch also have threshold with its amount being controlled in about 1% of the total mass.

If the added amount is over-excessive, Octadecanoic acid will not only cause the decrease of the quality and the performance of plastic products but also generate sticky substance in the die lip location of the manufacturing equipment of the plastic products, affecting the production efficiency and product quality.

The mono-or multi-alcohol ester of Octadecanoic acid can be used as cosmetics, nonionic surfactants and plasticizers.
Octadecanoic acid's alkali metal salt can be dissolved in water and is a major component of soap.
Other kinds of salts can be used as waterproofing agents, lubricants, bactericides, coating additives and PVC stabilizers.

Octadecanoic acid is used as a lubricating agent.
Octadecanoic acid is used as a food additive.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the production of detergents.

Octadecanoic acid is widely used in cosmetics, soaps, and shampoos.
Octadecanoic acid is used in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals.
Octadecanoic acid is used in making insulators.

Octadecanoic acid is used in the food packaging industry.
Octadecanoic acid acts as good emulsion stabilizing agent.
Octadecanoic acid has effective thickening properties.

Octadecanoic acid provides a soft, pearly and cooling feel on the skin.
Octadecanoic acid is often used in lubricants.
Octadecanoic acid is used as a negative plate additive in the manufacture of lead-acid batteries.

Octadecanoic acid is added at the rate of 0.6 g per kg of the oxide while preparing the paste.
Octadecanoic acid is believed to enhance the hydrophobicity of the negative plate, particularly during dry-charging process.

Octadecanoic acid also reduces the extension of oxidation of the freshly formed lead (negative active material) when the plates are kept for drying in the open atmosphere after the process of tank formation.
As a consequence, the charging time of a dry uncharged battery during initial filling and charging (IFC) is comparatively lower, as compared to a battery assembled with plates which do not contain Octadecanoic acid additive.

Fatty acids are classic components of candle-making.
Octadecanoic acid is used along with simple sugar or corn syrup as a hardener in candies.
Most imported form of Octadecanoic acid takes vegetable oil as the raw materials, the production processes are more advanced; the produced

Octadecanoic acid is of stable performance, good lubrication property and less odor in the application.
Octadecanoic acid is mainly used for the production of stearates such as sodium stearate, magnesium stearate, calcium stearate, lead stearate, aluminum stearate, cadmium stearate, iron stearate, and potassium stearate.

The sodium or potassium salt of Octadecanoic acid is the component of soap.
Although sodium stearate has a less decontamination ability than sodium palmitate, but its presence may increase the hardness of soap.
Take butter as raw material, go through sulfuric acid or pressurized method for decomposition.

The free fatty acids was first subject to water pressure method for removing the palmitic acid and oleic acid at 30~40 ℃, and then dissolved in ethanol, followed by addition of barium acetate or magnesium acetate which precipitates stearate.
Then further add dilute sulfuric acid to get the free stearate acid, filter and take it, and re-crystallize in ethanol to obtain the pure Octadecanoic acid.

The above information is edited by the chemicalbook of Dai Xiongfeng.
Octadecanoic acid can be used as natural rubber, synthetic rubber (except butyl rubber) and latex curing active agent.

Octadecanoic acid can also be used as raw material of plastic plasticizer and stabilizer.
Medicine: Octadecanoic acid can be used for the preparation of ointments, suppositories, etc., as well as being used in the manufacture of cosmetics, candles, waterproof agent and polishing agent.

Octadecanoic acid can be used as a lubricant, defoamers and food additives in the food industry as well as the raw materials of glycerol stearate, Octadecanoic acid sorbitol anhydride esters and sucrose esters.
Octadecanoic acid can also be used as standard reference product for gas analysis as well as the preparation of soap, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and other organic chemicals.

Its unique chemical structure and properties make it an indispensable ingredient in formulations spanning cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food products, plastics, and rubber manufacturing.
Explore the broad spectrum of Octadecanoic acid industrial applications, understanding its functional roles in various manufacturing processes.

Delve into the chemical properties of octadecanoic acid uses, examining its efficacy as a surfactant and softening agent in product development.
Understand why Octadecanoic acid cosmetic ingredient is a preferred choice for formulators seeking to enhance texture, stability, and emollience in creams, lotions, and soaps.

Learn about the critical role of Octadecanoic acid pharmaceutical excipient in tablet binding, lubrication, and controlled release formulations.
Octadecanoic acid is used along with simple sugar or corn syrup as a hardener in candies.
Octadecanoic acid is used to produce dietary supplements.

Octadecanoic acid is mainly used in the production of detergents, soaps, and cosmetics such as shampoos and shaving cream products.
Fatty acids are classic components of candle-making.
Octadecanoic acid is used along with simple sugar or corn syrup as a hardener in candies.

In epidemiologic and clinical studies, Octadecanoic acid was found to be associated with lowered LDL cholesterol in comparison with other saturated fatty acids.
Octadecanoic acid's versatility stems from its emollient, emulsifying, and stabilizing properties, making it a key ingredient in numerous applications.

Octadecanoic acid hardens soaps and candles by forming stearate salts, acts as a lubricant and release agent in plastics and rubber vulcanization, serves as an opacifier and thickener in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals (e.g., in ointments and tablet coatings), and functions as a food additive (E570) for emulsification in confectionery, margarine, and chewing gum.
Unlike other saturated fats, dietary Octadecanoic acid is considered neutral or beneficial for cholesterol levels, as it is rapidly converted to oleic acid in the body, though excessive intake from processed foods should be moderated.

-Food uses of Octadecanoic acid:
Of the saturated fatty acids consumed in the United States, Octadecanoic acid consumption is second (26% of total saturated fatty acid intake) to palmitic acid (56% of total saturated fatty acid intake).
Octadecanoic acid is more abundant in animal fat (up to 33% in beef liver) than in vegetable fat (typically less than 5%).

The important exceptions are the foods cocoa butter (34%) and shea butter, where the Octadecanoic acid content (as a triglyceride) is 28–45%.
Examples of the use of Octadecanoic acid in food manufacturing include baked goods, frozen dairy products, gelatins, puddings, hard candy, and nonalcoholic beverages.

-Soaps and cosmetics use of Octadecanoic acid:
Octadecanoic acid is mainly used in the production of detergents, soaps, and cosmetics such as shampoos and shaving cream products.
Stearate soap, such as sodium stearate, could be made from Octadecanoic acid but instead are usually produced by saponification of Octadecanoic acid-containing triglycerides.
Esters of Octadecanoic acid with ethylene glycol (glycol stearate and glycol distearate) are used to produce a pearly effect in shampoos, soaps, and other cosmetic products.

-Lubricants, softening and release agents use of Octadecanoic acid:
In view of the soft texture of the sodium salt, which is the main component of soap, other salts are also useful for their lubricating properties.

Lithium stearate is an important component of grease.
The stearate salts of zinc, calcium, cadmium, and lead are used as heat stabilizers for PVC.

Octadecanoic acid is used along with castor oil for preparing softeners in textile sizing.
They are heated and mixed with caustic potash or caustic soda.

Related salts are also commonly used as release agents, for example in the production of automobile tires.
As an example, Octadecanoic acid can be used to make castings from a plaster piece mold or waste mold, and to make a mold from a shellacked clay original.

In this use, powdered Octadecanoic acid is mixed in water and the suspension is brushed onto the surface to be parted after casting.
This reacts with the calcium in the plaster to form a thin layer of calcium stearate, which functions as a release agent.

Octadecanoic acid can be converted to zinc stearate, which is used as a lubricant for playing cards (fanning powder) to ensure a smooth motion when fanning.
Octadecanoic acid is a common lubricant during injection molding and pressing of ceramic powders.

-Niche uses of Octadecanoic acid:
Being inexpensive, nontoxic, and fairly inert, Octadecanoic acid finds many niche applications.
Varied examples of Octadecanoic acid use in manufacturing include soaps and greases, household soap products, synthetic rubber, cosmetic and pharmaceutical creams and lotions, candles, phonograph records, lubricants, shoe and metal polishes, food packaging, and rubber compounds.

FOOD APPLICATIONS of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid serves as an emulsifier and stabilizer in various food products, designated as E 570 in the European Union.
Octadecanoic acid is employed to enhance texture and prevent separation in items such as chewing gum, where it acts as a plasticizing agent, candies for improved consistency, and baked goods to aid dough handling and stability.

Usage levels of Octadecanoic acid are typically limited to good manufacturing practice, often around 0.5–2% in these applications to ensure functionality without altering flavor.

In chocolate and confectionery, Octadecanoic acid contributes significantly to the desired snap and mouthfeel, primarily as a component of cocoa butter, which contains approximately 35% Octadecanoic acid.
This saturated fatty acid helps form the crystalline structure that provides solidity at room temperature and a smooth melt in the mouth, and Octadecanoic acid is also used in cocoa butter equivalents derived from vegetable sources to mimic these properties.

Nutritionally, Octadecanoic acid is an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid that provides 9 kcal per gram, similar to other dietary fats.
Unlike many other saturated fats, Octadecanoic acid has a neutral effect on total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, making it a less concerning component in moderation compared to palmitic or lauric acids.

Regulatory approvals include generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in food at levels not exceeding current good manufacturing practice.
The World Health Organization, aligned with dietary guidelines, recommends limiting total saturated fat intake, including Octadecanoic acid, to less than 10% of daily caloric intake to support cardiovascular health.

Octadecanoic acid is incorporated into margarines and shortenings through interesterification processes, where it is rearranged with other fats like high-oleic sunflower oil or palm stearin to create trans-fat-free alternatives with improved spreadability and stability for baking and frying applications.

Historically, Octadecanoic acid has been used in food since the 19th century, initially derived from animal tallow in early margarine production, with modern vegan alternatives sourced from palm oil to meet plant-based demands.

PERSONAL CARE AND COSMETICS USE of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid plays a key role in the formulation of soaps and detergents, where it is incorporated at levels of 10–30% to enhance bar hardness and promote stable lather formation through the production of sodium stearate salts.
These salts, derived from the saponification of Octadecanoic acid with sodium hydroxide, contribute to the soap's durability and cleansing efficiency by creating a firm structure that resists softening in humid conditions while facilitating effective emulsification of oils and dirt.

In cosmetics, Octadecanoic acid functions primarily as a thickener and emollient, helping to stabilize emulsions and impart a smooth texture in products such as lotions, creams, and lipsticks, typically at concentrations up to 5%.
In lotions and creams, Octadecanoic acid binds oil and water phases to prevent separation, while providing moisturizing benefits that soften the skin without greasiness.

For lipsticks, Octadecanoic acid enhances opacity and structural stability, ensuring even application and longevity on the lips by forming a protective barrier.
Its surfactant properties further extend its utility in personal care, where Octadecanoic acid reduces surface tension to improve foaming and cleansing in shampoos and conditioners.

This action allows for better dispersion of active ingredients and removal of residues from hair and scalp, contributing to a lighter, more manageable feel.
Globally, personal care and cosmetics account for approximately 20–30% of total Octadecanoic acid consumption as of 2023 estimates, driven by rising demand for grooming and skincare products.

Specific formulations highlight its versatility, such as in deodorants where Octadecanoic acid acts as a binding agent to hold solid components together and maintain product integrity during use.
Hypoallergenic grades of Octadecanoic acid, often vegetable-derived, are preferred for sensitive skin formulations due to their low irritation potential and compatibility with dermatological standards.

Sustainability trends in the industry have accelerated since the 2010s, with a notable shift toward RSPO-certified palm-derived Octadecanoic acid to address environmental concerns related to deforestation and biodiversity loss.

PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid is widely used in oral and topical pharmaceutical formulations.
Octadecanoic acid is mainly used in oral formulations as a tablet and capsule lubricant, although it may also be used as a binder or in combination with shellac as a tablet coating.

It has also been suggested that Octadecanoic acid may be used in enteric tablet coatings and as a sustained-release drug carrier.
In topical formulations, Octadecanoic acid is used as an emulsifying and solubilizing agent.
When partially neutralized with alkalis or triethanolamine, Octadecanoic acid is used in the preparation of creams.

The partially neutralized Octadecanoic acid forms a creamy base when mixed with 5–15 times its own weight of aqueous liquid, the appearance and plasticity of the cream being determined by the proportion of alkali used.

Octadecanoic acid is used as the hardening agent in glycerin suppositories.
Octadecanoic acid is also widely used in cosmetics and food products.

KEY APPLICATIONS of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
*Cosmetics & Personal Care
Discover how Octadecanoic acid cosmetic ingredient is integral to formulating high-quality skincare, haircare, and makeup products, providing desirable textures and moisturizing benefits.

*Pharmaceuticals
Understand the function of Octadecanoic acid pharmaceutical excipient in drug manufacturing, aiding in tablet compression, acting as a binder, and facilitating controlled drug delivery.

*Food Industry
Explore the use of Octadecanoic acid in food industry as a food additive that enhances texture, stability, and acts as an anti-caking agent in various food products.

*Industrial Manufacturing
Utilize Octadecanoic acid surfactant properties and lubrication capabilities in the production of plastics, rubber, lubricants, and candles, optimizing manufacturing processes and product longevity.

Octadecanoic acid is a colorless, odorless carboxylic acid that melts at 69.3 °C, is waxy solid at normal ambient temperature, soluble in ether, soluble in hot ethanol and insoluble in water.
Octadecanoic acid is a mixture of (mainly) palmitic acid (syn. hexadecanoic acid) and Octadecanoic acid (octadecanoic acid).
The salts of Octadecanoic acid are called stearates.

PRODUCTION METHOD of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid occurs in many animal and vegetable fats and oils, but it is more abundant in animal fat (up to 30 %) than vegetable fat (typically < 5 % ).
The important exceptions are cocoa butter and shea butter where the Octadecanoic acid content (as a triglyceride) is 28 – 45 %.

Octadecanoic acid is prepared by treating these fats and oils with water at a high pressure and temperature (above 200 °C), leading to the hydrolysis of triglycerides.

The resulting mixture is then distilled.
Commercial Octadecanoic acid is often a mixture of stearic and palmitic acids, although purified Octadecanoic acid is available.
In terms of its biosynthesis, Octadecanoic acid is produced from carbohydrates via the fatty acid synthesis machinery via acetyl-CoA.

PREPARATION of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Commercially, Octadecanoic acid is produced by the hydrogenation of the unsaturated 18-carbon fatty acids of soybean, cottonseed or other vegetable oils.
When obtained from animal fats by hydrolysis and fractional crystallization, commercial Octadecanoic acid is a mixture of solid organic acids, chiefly palmitic and Octadecanoic acids.
Commercial products containing about 90% Octadecanoic acid are produced by hydrolysis and crystallization of a completely hydrogenated vegetable oil or by fractional distillation of fatty acid mixtures obtained from tallow.

BIOCHEM/PHYSIOL ACTIONS of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
β-Oxidation of Octadecanoic acid yields eight FADH2 (flavin adenine dinucleotide) and NADH2 (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) molecules and nine acetyl-CoA molecules.

OCCURRENCE of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
As glyceryl stearate, Octadecanoic acid is a natural component in almost all animal and vegetable fats and oils.
For example, in coconut oil, hazelnuts or cocoa butter.
In the EU, palmitic acid is generally approved as a food additive (E 570) for food.

KEY ADVANTAGES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
*Versatile Functionality
Leverage the power of Octadecanoic acid as a multi-functional ingredient, serving as an emulsifier, stabilizer, lubricant, and softener across a wide array of product types.

*Industrial Performance
Enhance product performance in the plastics and rubber industries by utilizing Octadecanoic acid plastic lubricant for improved processing and end-product quality.

*Natural Origin & Safety
Benefit from the often plant-derived nature of saturated fatty acid manufacturing processes, coupled with its established safety profile for Octadecanoic acid in food industry applications.

INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid is primarily produced on an industrial scale through the hydrolysis of animal or vegetable fats and oils, followed by purification steps to isolate the desired fatty acid.
In this process, triglycerides from sources such as tallow, palm oil, or coconut oil derivatives are hydrolyzed—often via saponification or high-pressure splitting with water at elevated temperatures—to yield a mixture of free fatty acids and glycerol.

The fatty acid mixture, which includes Octadecanoic acid alongside other saturated and unsaturated fatty acids like palmitic and oleic acid, is then separated from the glycerol phase.

A key refinement step involves fractional distillation under vacuum conditions, which exploits differences in boiling points to concentrate Octadecanoic acid, typically achieving purity levels of 90–99% depending on the grade required for commercial applications.
This distillation separates Octadecanoic acid (boiling point approximately 361 °C at atmospheric pressure) from lower-boiling impurities and higher-molecular-weight components, with multiple passes used for higher purity.

Raw materials historically favored animal fats like tallow for their high natural stearic content, but production has shifted predominantly to vegetable sources such as palm and coconut oils since the 1990s, driven by concerns over bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) transmission risks and growing demands for sustainable, ethical alternatives.

An alternative or complementary method is the hydrogenation of unsaturated C18 fatty acids, particularly oleic acid derived from vegetable oils, to produce Octadecanoic acid.
This catalytic process employs nickel-based catalysts, typically at temperatures around 200 °C and pressures of 3 atm, converting double bonds in oleic acid to yield saturated Octadecanoic acid with conversion efficiencies of 80–95%.

Byproducts such as palmitic acid may form depending on the feedstock composition, and the reaction is often integrated post-hydrolysis to enhance overall stearic yield from unsaturated-rich sources like palm olein.

PRODUCTION METHODS of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid is manufactured by hydrolysis of fat by continuous exposure to a countercurrent stream of high-temperature water and fat in a high-pressure chamber.
The resultant mixture is purified by vacuum steam distillation and the distillates are then separated using selective solvents.

Octadecanoic acid may also be manufactured by the hydrogenation of cottonseed and other vegetable oils; by the hydrogenation and subsequent saponification of olein followed by recrystallization from alcohol; and from edible fats and oils by boiling with sodium hydroxide, separating any glycerin, and decomposing the resulting soap with sulfuric or hydrochloric acid.

The Octadecanoic acid is then subsequently separated from any oleic acid by cold expression.
Octadecanoic acid is derived from edible fat sources unless it is intended for external use, in which case nonedible fat sources may be used.

The USP32–NF27 states that Octadecanoic acid labeled solely for external use is exempt from the requirement that it be prepared from edible sources.
Octadecanoic acid may contain a suitable antioxidant such as 0.005% w/w butylated hydroxytoluene.

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid has a characteristic odor and taste resembling tallow.
It is a mixture of solid organic acids obtained from fats consisting chiefly of Octadecanoic acid (C18H36O2) and palmitic acid (C16H32O2).

Octadecanoic acid is a hard, white or faintly yellow-colored, somewhat glossy, crystalline solid or a white or yellowish white powder.
Octadecanoic acid has a slight odor (with an odor threshold of 20 ppm) and taste suggesting tallow.

Octadecanoic acid, CH3(CH2)16COOH, is a white or colorless, waxlike solid with a melting point of 70°C (158 OF), and a boiling point of 232°C (450 OF) at 2 kPa.
Octadecanoic acid is soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform,and is insolublein water.

Octadecanoic acid, nature's most common fatty acid, is derived from natural animal and vegetable fats.
Also known as n-octadecanoic acid, Octadecanoic acid is used in the preparation of metallic stearates, as a lubricant, and in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, candles, and food packaging.

OCCURRENCE of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid is naturally present in the glycerides of animal fats and most vegetable oils.
Octadecanoic acid is reported found in fresh apple, banana, Vitis vinifera L., melon, tomato, ginger, blue cheeses, cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, feta cheese, buttermilk, raw fatty fish, raw lean fish, raw shrimp, grapefruit juice, guava, papaya, cucumber, saffron, pork and lamb liver, pork fat, hop oil, beer, cognac, rum, whiskies, sherry, tea, peanut oil, soybean, roast coconut, coconut milk, avocado, passion fruit, rose apple, mushroom, starfruit, fenugreek, mango, cardamom, cooked rice, prickly pear, dill seed, buckwheat, malt, wort, cassava, loquat, shrimp, crab, cape gooseberry and Chinese quince.

PRODUCTION METHOD of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
There are two major approaches for industrial production of Octadecanoic acid, namely fractionation and compression method.
Add decomposition agent to the hydrogenated oil, and then hydrolyze to give the crude fatty acid, further go through washing with water, distillation, bleaching to obtain the finished products with glycerol as the byproduct.
Compression method takes animal oil as raw material.

Have animal oil subject to hydrolysis in the catalysis of zinc oxide at pressure of 1.17~1.47 MPa, further go through pickling, washing, distillation, cooling, freezing, press for removal of oleic acid to get the finished products.
Heat the cotton seed oil, rice bran oil, or soybean oil in the presence of a hydrolyzing agent under normal pressure to boiling with hydrolysis of 1.5 h and harden to saturated fatty acid.

Oleic acid hydrogenation;
Use the C10~C20 and C18~C20 fraction of the synthetic fatty acid as raw materials, go through melting, pickling (with 1% sulfuric acid) mold, pressing, melting, pickling, dehydrating and crystallization to obtain Octadecanoic acid.

Octadecanoic acid can be obtained through the low-temperature segment separation of the mixed fatty acid.
Octadecanoic acid can also be made through the hydrogenation of oleic acid.

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Pure Octadecanoic acid appears as white shiny soft small pieces.
Octadecanoic acid is slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol, acetone, easily soluble in benzene, chloroform, ether, carbon tetrachloride, carbon disulfide, amyl acetate and toluene.

METABOLISM of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
An isotope labeling study in humans concluded that the fraction of dietary Octadecanoic acid that oxidatively desaturates to oleic acid is 2.4 times higher than the fraction of palmitic acid analogously converted to palmitoleic acid.
Also, Octadecanoic acid is less likely to be incorporated into cholesterol esters.
In epidemiologic and clinical studies, Octadecanoic acid was found to be associated with lowered LDL cholesterol in comparison with other saturated fatty acids.

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid, with the IUPAC name octadecanoic acid, is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid comprising 18 carbon atoms in its carbon backbone.
Octadecanoic acid's molecular formula is C18H36O2, and the structural formula can be represented as CH3(CH2)16COOH, featuring a polar terminal carboxyl group (-COOH) bonded to a nonpolar hydrocarbon chain consisting of 16 methylene (-CH2-) units and a terminal methyl group (-CH3).

This configuration defines Octadecanoic acid as a saturated fatty acid, lacking any carbon-carbon double bonds, in contrast to its positional isomer oleic acid, which is an 18-carbon monounsaturated fatty acid with a cis double bond between carbons 9 and 10.
The primary functional groups in Octadecanoic acid are the carboxylic acid moiety, responsible for its acidic properties, and the extended alkyl chain, which influences solubility and reactivity.

As a typical carboxylic acid, Octadecanoic acid behaves as a weak acid in aqueous environments, partially dissociating to form the stearate anion and a proton, with a pKa value of 4.75 at 25°C.
The corresponding acid dissociation constant Ka is 1.78×10−5, calculated as Ka=10−pKa, indicating that at physiological pH values above 7, Octadecanoic acid predominantly exists in its deprotonated form.

Octadecanoic acid participates in characteristic reactions of carboxylic acids, including esterification, where it condenses with alcohols under acidic conditions to yield stearate esters; for instance, reaction with glycerol produces stearin (tristearin), a common fat used in food and cosmetics.

Octadecanoic acid also readily forms salts through neutralization with bases, such as sodium hydroxide to generate sodium stearate, a water-soluble soap widely employed in detergents.
Saponification, while typically describing the base-catalyzed hydrolysis of esters to regenerate carboxylic acids and alcohols, applies here to the conversion of Octadecanoic acid-containing triglycerides into soaps via alkali treatment.

The saturated structure of Octadecanoic acid confers notable chemical stability, particularly resistance to oxidation, as the absence of double bonds prevents facile attack by reactive oxygen species, unlike unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid that undergo peroxidation more readily.
This oxidative stability makes Octadecanoic acid suitable for applications requiring long-term durability without degradation.

PRODUCTION of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid is produced from oils and fats by the process of saponification of triglycerides by using hot water at about a temperature range of 100 degree celsius.
The mixture produced is distilled.
Commercially obtained octadecanoic acid is usually a mixture of palmitic acid and Octadecanoic acid.
The oil and fats content of Stearophanic acid is rich in animal fat when compared to vegetable fat.
Few exceptions are in the foods such as shea butter and cocoa butter, with the Octadecanoic acid content of about 28–45%.

SOURCES AND PRODUCTION of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Natural occurrence
Octadecanoic acid is a common saturated fatty acid found in various natural lipids, particularly in animal and plant sources where it contributes to the structural integrity of fats.

In animal fats, Octadecanoic acid is abundant, comprising up to 30% of beef tallow and approximately 15% of lard, reflecting its prevalence in mammalian adipose tissues and rendered fats.
These levels highlight Octadecanoic acid's role as a major component in animal-derived lipids, often exceeding its concentration in most vegetable oils.

Plant sources also contain notable amounts of Octadecanoic acid, especially in certain butters and oils.
Cocoa butter is particularly rich, with Octadecanoic acid making up 34–37% of its fatty acid composition, while shea butter contains 20–50%, depending on regional variants and growing conditions.
In contrast, palm oil holds 4–5% Octadecanoic acid, and cottonseed oil has smaller quantities around 2–3%.

Within these natural triglycerides, Octadecanoic acid is typically esterified at the sn-1 or sn-3 positions of the glycerol backbone, a stereospecific arrangement common in both animal and vegetable fats that influences their physical properties.
Microbial sources include certain bacteria, such as species of Mycobacterium, where Octadecanoic acid is incorporated into cell wall components like phthiocerol dimycocerosates (PDIMs) and mycolic acids, contributing to envelope stability.

PROPERTIES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Octadecanoic acid is a molar mass of 284.48 g/mol.
Octadecanoic acid appears as a white, waxy solid at room temperature.
Octadecanoic acid exhibits a melting point range of 69.3–69.7 °C and a boiling point of 361 °C at 100 mmHg.

Octadecanoic acid's density is 0.94 g/cm³ in the solid state and 0.839 g/cm³ in the liquid state at 75 °C.
Octadecanoic acid is insoluble in water, with a solubility of 0.0003 g/100 mL at 20 °C, but it is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform.

The refractive index of Octadecanoic acid is 1.4299 at 80 °C, and the flash point is 196 °C.
Key thermal properties of Octadecanoic acid include a heat of combustion of -11,298 kJ/mol (approximately -39.7 kJ/g) and a specific heat capacity of the solid phase around 2.1 J/g•K at room temperature.

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
Common Name: Stearic acid
CAS Number: 57-11-4
EC Number (EINECS): 200-313-4
Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₆O₂
Molecular Weight: ~284.48 g/mol
PubChem CID: 5281
ChemSpider ID: 5091
IUPAC Name: Octadecanoic acid
Appearance White or slightly yellow wax-like solid
Odor Slight fatty odor

Density ~0.94 g/cm³ (20 °C)
Melting Point ~69–70 °C
Boiling Point Decomposes before boiling (~360–383 °C)
Solubility in Water Practically insoluble / ~0.0029 g/100 g at 20 °C
Solubility in Organic Solvents Soluble in alcohol, ether, benzene, chloroform, carbon disulfide
Functional Group: Carboxylic acid (–COOH)
Saturated fatty acid: Contains no carbon-carbon double bonds
Chemical formula: C18H36O2
Molar mass: 284.484 g·mol−1

Appearance: White solid
Odor: Pungent, oily
Density: 0.9408 g/cm3 (20 °C)
Density: 0.847 g/cm3 (70 °C)
Melting point: 69.3 °C (156.7 °F; 342.4 K)
Boiling point: 361 °C (682 °F; 634 K)
Boiling point: decomposes
Boiling point: 232 °C (450 °F; 505 K) at 15 mmHg

Solubility in water: 0.0018 g/100 g (0 °C)
Solubility in water: 0.0029 g/100 g (20 °C)
Solubility in water: 0.0034 g/100 g (30 °C)
Solubility in water: 0.0042 g/100 g (45 °C)
Solubility in water: 0.0050 g/100 g (60 °C)
Solubility: Soluble in alkyl acetates
Solubility: Soluble in alcohols
Solubility: Soluble in methyl formate

Solubility: Soluble in phenyls
Solubility: Soluble in carbon disulfide
Solubility: Soluble in carbon tetrachloride
Solubility in dichloromethane: 3.58 g/100 g (25 °C)
Solubility in dichloromethane: 8.85 g/100 g (30 °C)
Solubility in dichloromethane: 18.3 g/100 g (35 °C)

Solubility in hexane: 0.5 g/100 g (20 °C)
Solubility in hexane: 4.3 g/100 g (30 °C)
Solubility in hexane: 19 g/100 g (40 °C)
Solubility in hexane: 79.2 g/100 g (50 °C)
Solubility in hexane: 303 g/100 g (60 °C)[4]
Solubility in ethanol: 1.09 g/100 mL (10 °C)

Solubility in ethanol: 2.25 g/100 g (20 °C)
Solubility in ethanol: 5.42 g/100 g (30 °C)
Solubility in ethanol: 22.7 g/100 g (40 °C)
Solubility in ethanol: 105 g/100 g (50 °C)
Solubility in ethanol: 400 g/100 g (60 °C)
Solubility in acetone: 4.73 g/100 g
Solubility in chloroform: 15.54 g/100 g
Solubility in toluene: 13.61 g/100 g

Vapor pressure: 0.01 kPa (158 °C)
Vapor pressure: 0.46 kPa (200 °C)
Vapor pressure: 16.9 kPa (300 °C)
Typical reactions: Esterification with alcohols
Typical reactions: Salt formation with metals (stearates)
Typical reactions: Reduction to stearyl alcohol
Molecular Weight: 284.5 g/mol
XLogP3: 7.4

Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 1
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 2
Rotatable Bond Count: 16
Exact Mass: 284.271530387 Da
Monoisotopic Mass: 284.271530387 Da
Topological Polar Surface Area: 37.3 Å²
Heavy Atom Count: 20
Formal Charge: 0
Complexity: 202

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
Magnetic susceptibility (χ): −220.8·10−6 cm3/mol

Thermal conductivity: 0.173 W/m·K (70 °C)
Thermal conductivity: 0.166 W/m·K (100 °C)
Refractive index (nD): 1.4299 (80 °C)
Structure:
Crystal structure: B-form = Monoclinic
Space group: B-form = P21/a
Point group: B-form = Cs2h
Lattice constant: a = 5.591 Å, b = 7.404 Å, c = 49.38 Å (B-form)
Lattice constant: α = 90°, β = 117.37°, γ = 90°

Thermochemistry:
Heat capacity (C): 501.5 J/mol·K
Std molar entropy (S⦵298): 435.6 J/mol·K
Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298): −947.7 kJ/mol
Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298): −11342.4 kJ/mol
Appearance: white to pale yellow crystalline powder (est)
Assay: 95.00 to 100.00
Water Content: <0.20%

Food Chemicals Codex Listed: Yes
Melting Point: 64.00 to 69.00 °C @ 760.00 mm Hg
Boiling Point: 183.00 to 184.00 °C @ 1.00 mm Hg
Boiling Point: 196.00 to 211.00 °C @ 760.00 mm Hg
Saponification Value: 197.00 to 212.00
Unsaponifiable Matter: <1.50%
Vapor Pressure: 0.000008 mmHg @ 25.00 °C (est)
Flash Point: > 230.00 °F TCC (> 110.00 °C)

logP (o/w): 8.230
Soluble in: alcohol, 1gm in 20ml
Soluble in: chloroform
Soluble in: ether
Soluble in: hexylene glycol
Soluble in: propylene glycol
Soluble in: water, 0.597 mg/L @ 25 °C (exp)

Melting point: 67-72 °C (lit.)
Boiling point: 361 °C (lit.)
Density: 0.845 g/cm3
bulk density: 400-500kg/m3
vapor pressure: 1 mm Hg (173.7 °C)
refractive index: 1.4299
FEMA: 3035 | STEARIC ACID
Flash point: >230 °F
storage temp.: Store below +30°C.

solubility: Practically insoluble in water, soluble in ethanol (96 per cent) and in light petroleum (bp: 50-70 °C).
form: powder
pka: pKa 5.75±0.00(H2O t = 35) (Uncertain)
Specific Gravity: 0.84 (80℃)
color: White
Odor: odorless mild fatty
Odor Type: odorless
biological source: palm oil
Water Solubility: 0.1-1 g/100 mL at 23 ºC

Merck: 14,8804
JECFA Number: 116
BRN: 608585
Exposure limits: ACGIH: TWA 10 mg/m3; TWA 3 mg/m3
Dielectric constant: 2.3（22℃）
Cosmetics Ingredients Functions: EMULSION STABILISING
Cosmetics Ingredients Functions: SURFACTANT - CLEANSING
Cosmetics Ingredients Functions: REFATTING

Cosmetics Ingredients Functions: CLEANSING
Cosmetics Ingredients Functions: SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING
Cosmetics Ingredients Functions: FRAGRANCE
InChIKey: QIQXTHQIDYTFRH-UHFFFAOYSA-N
LogP: 8.22
FDA 21 CFR: 184.1090; 172.615; 175.105; 175.300; 201.327; 352.70; 357.210
Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS): STEARIC ACID
SCOGS (Select Committee on GRAS Substances): Stearic acid (packaging)
CAS DataBase Reference: 57-11-4 (CAS DataBase Reference)

EWG's Food Scores: 1
FDA UNII: 4ELV7Z65AP
NIST Chemistry Reference: Octadecanoic acid (57-11-4)
EPA Substance Registry System: Stearic acid (57-11-4)
Cosmetics Info: Stearic Acid
UNSPSC Code: 85151701
NACRES: NA.77
Physical state: Wax like
Color: white

Odor: mild
Melting point/freezing point: Melting point/ range: 67 - 72 °C - lit.
Initial boiling point and boiling range: 361 °C - lit.
Flammability (solid, gas): No data available
Upper/lower flammability or explosive limits: No data available
Flash point: ca.200 °C - Cleveland open cup - ASTM D 92
Autoignition temperature: ca.400 °C
Decomposition temperature: No data available
pH: No data available

Viscosity:
Viscosity, kinematic: 12 mm2/s at 70 °C - ASTM D 445
Viscosity, dynamic: 9,87 mPa.s at 70 °C
Water solubility: No data available
Partition coefficient: n-octanol/water: No data available
Vapor pressure: No data available
Density: 0,845 g/cm3
Relative density: No data available

Relative vapour density: No data available
Particle characteristics: No data available
Explosive properties: Not classified as explosive.
Oxidizing properties: none
Other safety information:
Surface tension: ca.0,03 mN/m at 20 °C
Molar mass: 284.48 g/mol
Appearance: White waxy solid

Melting point: 69.3–69.7 °C
Boiling point: 361 °C (at 100 mmHg)
Density (solid): 0.94 g/cm³
Density (liquid, 75 °C): 0.839 g/cm³
Solubility in water (20 °C): 0.0003 g/100 mL
Refractive index (80 °C): 1.4299
Flash point: 196 °C
Heat of combustion: -11,298 kJ/mol (-39.7 kJ/g)
Specific heat capacity (solid): ~2.1 J/g·K

FIRST AID MEASURES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most).
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.

HANDLING and STORAGE of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.

STABILITY and REACTIVITY of OCTADECANOIC ACID:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available