Product Overview
Stearic Acid (chemical name: octadecanoic acid, CAS No. 57-11-4, molecular formula C₁₈H₃₆O₂) is a naturally occurring long-chain saturated fatty acid widely used in industrial and commercial applications.
At room temperature, stearic acid appears as white flakes or granules with a wax-like texture and a faint fatty odor. It is commonly derived from animal and vegetable fats and oils, such as palm oil and tallow.
Due to its excellent lubricating properties, emulsifying capability, and chemical stability, stearic acid serves as a versatile raw material in multiple industries. It plays an important role in plastics processing, rubber manufacturing, cosmetics production, pharmaceuticals, and food-related applications.
Key Specifications
Typical product characteristics include:
- Appearance: White flakes or granular solid
- Acid Value: 196 – 211 mg KOH/g
- Iodine Value: ≤ 2.0 g I₂/100 g
- Saponification Value: 195 – 212 mg KOH/g
- Melting Point: 54 – 58°C
- Moisture Content: ≤ 0.2%
- Ash Content: ≤ 0.05%
- Color (Gardner): ≤ 2
Grade Availability
Stearic acid is available in multiple grades to suit different industries:
- Food Grade (FCC)
- Cosmetic Grade (USP)
- Industrial Grade
Main Application Areas
Personal Care and Cosmetics
Stearic acid is widely used in the personal care industry due to its emulsifying and stabilizing properties.
Typical applications include:
- Soap production: Provides hardness and improves foam stability
- Creams and lotions: Acts as a co-emulsifier and thickening agent
- Cosmetics: Used as a lubricant and structural stabilizer in products such as lipsticks and foundations
Plastics and Rubber Industry
In polymer processing, stearic acid functions as an important processing aid.
Plastics
- Used as an external lubricant and release agent in PVC processing
- Improves mold release and surface finish of plastic products
Rubber
- Acts as a vulcanization activator
- Enhances cross-linking efficiency and improves weather resistance in rubber products
Pharmaceutical Industry
Stearic acid is used in pharmaceutical formulations for its lubrication and stabilization properties.
Common applications include:
- Tablet lubricant to improve manufacturing efficiency
- Suppository base material, providing controlled release at body temperature
Food Industry
Food-grade stearic acid can be used in various food-related applications, including:
- Candy and confectionery polishing agent
- Baking release agent
- Fat plasticity regulator in certain food formulations
(Use subject to applicable food safety regulations.)
Other Industrial Applications
Stearic acid also serves as a versatile additive in several industrial processes, including:
- Candle manufacturing – improves hardness and regulates burning characteristics
- Metal polishing compounds – used as a binder or carrier material
- Textile processing – functions as a lubricant and waterproofing agent
Packaging and Storage
Packaging
Standard packaging options include:
- 25 kg bags or cartons
- Woven bags or cardboard boxes lined with polyethylene (PE) bags to protect against moisture
Storage Conditions
To maintain product quality, the following storage conditions are recommended:
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
- Avoid direct sunlight exposure
- Keep away from strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, and heat sources
Recommended storage parameters:
- Temperature: ≤ 30°C
- Relative humidity: ≤ 70%
Shelf Life
- 2 years when stored in unopened original packaging under recommended conditions.
