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DESCRIPTION
Potassium olivate is the potassium salt of oleic acid, which is a fatty acid derived from olive oil.
Potassium olivate is commonly used in cosmetic formulations, especially in soaps, due to its emulsifying and cleansing properties.
Potassium olivate is known for its gentle nature and ability to create a rich, smooth lather.
Cas Number 61790-52-1
SYNONYMS
Potassium salt of oleic acid,Potassium oleate, Oleic acid potassium salt
Potassium olivate also helps in moisturizing and conditioning the skin by forming a barrier that locks in moisture.
As a natural ingredient, it is considered mild and suitable for sensitive skin types.
Potassium Olivate is an alkali salt of oleic acid, which is a monounsaturated fatty acid commonly derived from olive oil.
Chemically, it is the potassium salt of oleic acid, formed through the process of saponification.
Its molecular formula is typically C18H33KO2, and its structure consists of a long hydrocarbon tail (18 carbon atoms) with a carboxyl group (–COOH) at one end, which is neutralized by a potassium ion (K+).
The compound is widely used in various industries for its surfactant and emulsifying properties.
Unlike sodium salts, which tend to be harsher, potassium olivate is more soluble in water and tends to create a milder, more stable foam.
History and Discovery
The use of olive oil in soap-making dates back thousands of years, with records from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. However, Potassium Olivate, specifically, was not widely recognized as a distinct compound until advancements in organic chemistry during the 19th century.
Its commercial use grew as interest in milder and more natural surfactants increased during the late 20th century, driven by environmental concerns and the natural product movement.
Importance in the Industry
Today, Potassium Olivate is a key ingredient in personal care products such as soaps, shampoos, and moisturizers.
It is also used in various cleaning agents and has applications in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in drug formulations where a mild surfactant is necessary.
Its renewable and biodegradable nature has made it a popular choice for those looking to reduce the environmental impact of synthetic chemicals.
Chemical Composition
Molecular Formula
Potassium Olivate has the molecular formula C18H33KO2, where:
C18 refers to 18 carbon atoms, forming a long-chain fatty acid.
H33 refers to the hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon chain.
KO2 represents the potassium cation (K+) bound to the carboxyl group (–COOH), replacing the hydrogen ion.
Structural Formula
The structure of Potassium Olivate is based on the oleic acid molecule (C18H34O2) in which the hydrogen atom from the carboxyl group is replaced by a potassium ion.
This ionic bond between the potassium ion and the carboxylate group makes the compound a salt.
Properties of Potassium Olivate
Solubility: Potassium Olivate is highly soluble in water compared to sodium olivate, which makes it particularly useful in liquid soap formulations.
pH: As an alkali salt, it can slightly raise the pH of a formulation, making it mildly alkaline.
Surface Tension Reduction: Like other surfactants, Potassium Olivate reduces the surface tension of water, which helps in cleaning and foaming.
Synthesis of Potassium Olivate
Raw Materials
The primary raw material for the production of Potassium Olivate is olive oil, a triglyceride composed of oleic acid and other fatty acids like palmitic acid and linoleic acid.
Potassium hydroxide (KOH) is used as the alkali in the saponification process.
Manufacturing Process
The production of Potassium Olivate involves the chemical reaction between olive oil (or a related vegetable oil) and potassium hydroxide.
The process, known as saponification, occurs in two main steps:
Hydrolysis: The triglyceride (olive oil) is hydrolyzed by potassium hydroxide to produce potassium salts of the fatty acids (Potassium Olivate) and glycerol.
Separation and Purification: The mixture is then neutralized and purified, resulting in a clean product.
Mechanism of Saponification
During saponification, the ester bonds in the triglyceride are broken by the strong base (potassium hydroxide), releasing fatty acid chains and glycerol.
These fatty acid chains react with potassium ions to form potassium salts (Potassium Olivate).
The resulting product is a mixture of potassium salts, glycerol, and water, which can then be further purified to isolate Potassium Olivate.
PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS
Physical Properties
Color: Potassium Olivate is typically a light yellow to greenish color, depending on the quality of the olive oil used.
Odor: The compound has a mild, non-offensive odor typical of olive oil.
Density: It has a density of approximately 1.02–1.06 g/cm³ in its pure form.
Melting Point: Potassium Olivate has a relatively low melting point due to its ionic nature, typically between 70-90°C, depending on the concentration.
Chemical Properties
Solubility: It is soluble in water and ethanol, with varying solubility in organic solvents.
Reactivity: Potassium Olivate is a mild base and can react with acids to form salts.
It is stable under normal conditions but can decompose under extreme heat or with strong acids.
Stability and Storage: The compound is stable when stored in a cool, dry place and protected from excessive heat and light.
Applications in Industry
Personal Care
Potassium Olivate is widely used in the production of natural soaps, shampoos, and lotions due to its gentle cleansing action.
Potassium olivate forms a creamy lather and is less irritating to the skin compared to synthetic detergents.
Potassium olivate is also used in formulations designed for sensitive skin, as it is more hydrating and less drying.
Pharmaceuticals
In the pharmaceutical industry, Potassium Olivate is used in ointments, creams, and emulsions, acting as an emulsifier or a mild surfactant.
It is used in topical formulations to help other ingredients penetrate the skin without causing irritation.
Cleaning Products
As a natural surfactant, Potassium Olivate is found in various household cleaning products, especially those marketed as eco-friendly or biodegradable.
It helps in grease removal and emulsification of oils and dirt.
Food Industry
While its use in the food industry is less common, Potassium Olivate can be found in certain edible coatings, emulsifiers for products like mayonnaise, and in some processed food items, acting as a stabilizer or emulsifier.
Role in Sustainable Practices
Green Chemistry and Potassium Olivate
The use of Potassium Olivate aligns with the principles of green chemistry by promoting the use of renewable resources, reducing toxic chemical waste, and offering biodegradable alternatives to synthetic compounds. It is a perfect example of how chemical innovation can be harnessed to support sustainability.
Comparisons to Sodium-based Soap Alternatives
Compared to sodium-based soaps, Potassium Olivate is milder, more water-soluble, and often preferred in liquid soap formulations.
Sodium salts tend to form more rigid soap structures, making them less ideal for creating liquid or creamy formulations.
Contribution to Circular Economy
Potassium Olivate supports the circular economy by being derived from a renewable resource (olive oil), which can be sustainably sourced and processed.
The by-products of its production, such as glycerol, are also valuable in other industries.
Analytical Methods
Techniques to Analyze Potassium Olivate
Various analytical methods can be used to study and analyze Potassium Olivate.
These include:
Spectroscopy: UV-Vis and IR spectroscopy can be used to identify the functional groups and confirm the structure of the compound.
Chromatography: Techniques like HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) can separate and quantify Potassium Olivate in mixtures.
Mass Spectrometry: Provides precise molecular mass and fragmentation patterns for structural elucidation.
Regulatory and Safety Aspects
International Standards and Approvals
Potassium Olivate is approved for use in cosmetics and personal care products by regulatory bodies such as the FDA, EU Cosmetics Directive, and various other global agencies.
However, there are specific regulations regarding its concentration and the need for safety testing in different applications.
Safety Guidelines
Safety guidelines for Potassium Olivate include proper labeling, the inclusion of allergen information, and instructions for safe use.
The compound should be handled with care in industrial settings to avoid irritation.
Future Research Directions
Innovations and Potential Uses
Future research on Potassium Olivate may focus on improving its synthesis process to make it more efficient and cost-effective.
Its potential as an ingredient in pharmaceutical and food applications may also see expansion, as demand for natural alternatives grows.
Research on Improving Production Methods
Ongoing research aims to make the production of Potassium Olivate more sustainable by exploring renewable energy sources and optimizing the use of olive oil waste products.
Exploration of New Markets
Potassium Olivate is finding new applications in advanced fields such as biotechnology, where its surfactant properties may be useful in the formulation of medical devices, drug delivery systems, and environmental remediation technologies.
Conclusion
Potassium Olivate is a versatile and eco-friendly compound with significant potential across various industries, including personal care, pharmaceuticals, and cleaning.
Its mildness, biodegradability, and renewable nature position it as a leading example of how chemistry can contribute to sustainability.
As research continues and the demand for natural products grows, Potassium Olivate’s role is expected to expand, offering more sustainable alternatives in both everyday products and innovative applications.
SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT POTASSIUM OLIVATE
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
