Cetyl Alcohol 98% Flakes
Cetyl Alcohol Flakes is a high-purity fatty alcohol derived mainly from natural sources such as palm oil and coconut oil. Presented as white to off-white waxy flakes, this product contains at least 98% pure cetyl alcohol, ensuring consistent performance and quality. It is valued for its excellent emollient, thickening, and emulsifying properties and is widely used in personal care, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations. The flake form facilitates easy handling, melting, and dosing in manufacturing processes. Cetyl Alcohol 98% Flakes contributes to the texture, stability, and moisturizing properties of various formulations, providing a non-greasy, smooth finish.
Cetyl Alcohol 98% Flakes Uses
Primary UsesÂ
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Used as an emollient and thickening agent in creams, lotions, conditioners, and hair care products to improve texture and skin feel.
- Acts as an emulsifier stabilizing oil-in-water formulations, enhancing product consistency and shelf life.
- Incorporated in lipsticks, balms, and deodorants for structure and enhanced spreadability.
- Provides a non-greasy, smooth finish and improves product stability under different storage conditions.
Pharmaceuticals
- Employed as a base and thickener in topical ointments, creams, and lotions to enhance spreadability and skin conditioning.
- Serves as a non-irritating emollient and stabilizer in medicinal creams and lotions.
Secondary Uses
Industrial Applications
- Used as a lubricant, anti-static agent, and processing aid in plastics, textiles, and rubber industries.
- Acts as an intermediate in surfactant manufacturing and chemical synthesis.
Food Industry
- Occasionally used in food-grade packaging coatings and release agents (subject to regulatory approval).
Research & Development
Utilized in experimental formulations for novel personal care and pharmaceutical products.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Hexadecan-1-ol
- Common/Trade Name: Cetyl Alcohol 98% Flakes
- CAS Number: 36653-82-4
- HS Code: 2905.43.00
- Molecular Formula: C16H34O
- Molecular Weight: 242.45 g/mol
- Synonyms:
- 1-Hexadecanol
- Palmityl Alcohol
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid flakes
- Color & Odor: White to pale yellow; faint fatty odor
- Melting Point: 48–54°C (118–129°F)
- Boiling Point: ~344°C
- Density: ~0.81 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Solubility:
- Insoluble in water
- Soluble in oils, ethanol, chloroform
- Flash Point: ~190°C
- Purity: ≥98% cetyl alcohol
- Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 0
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: None established specifically
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; considered safe for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use
- Reactivity: Stable; combustible at high temperatures
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources
- Container Type: Sealed plastic drums or lined metal containers
- Shelf Life: Up to 3 years when stored properly
- Special Handling: Avoid dust formation; use personal protective equipment when handling large quantities
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
- REACH Status: Registered
- Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous
- Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local regulations; biodegradable
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental toxicity
- Persistence: Biodegradable
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
-
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE: Gloves, protective eyewear, and dust masks recommended for bulk handling
- Handling: Avoid inhalation of dust; ensure good ventilation
- Storage: Keep containers tightly closed and away from heat sources
- Hygiene: Wash hands after handling; avoid ingestion and eye contact
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if dust inhaled; seek medical advice if respiratory symptoms develop
- Skin Contact: Wash skin with soap and water; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Eye Contact: Flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; consult a physician if irritation continues
- Ingestion: Low toxicity; rinse mouth and seek medical advice if large amounts ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible at elevated temperatures; burns with smoky flame
- Extinguishing Media: Foam, dry chemical powder, COâ‚‚, or water spray
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
- Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons