Cetyl Palmitate
Cetyl Palmitate is a naturally derived ester formed by the reaction of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid. It appears as a white to off-white waxy solid with a mild fatty odor. This compound is widely used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations for its emollient, thickening, and texture-enhancing properties. Cetyl Palmitate imparts a smooth, creamy feel to products and contributes to improved stability and consistency in creams, lotions, balms, and ointments. Its film-forming and skin-conditioning attributes make it a preferred ingredient in personal care products as well as in specialty industrial applications.
Cetyl Palmitate
Primary Uses
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Functions as an emollient, thickener, and texture enhancer in creams, lotions, lipsticks, balms, and hair conditioners.
- Provides a smooth, velvety feel and improves the spreadability of topical products.
- Used as a stabilizer in oil-in-water emulsions to enhance consistency and shelf-life.
- Acts as a film-forming agent providing a protective barrier on the skin.
- Pharmaceuticals
- Used as a base and thickening agent in ointments, creams, and salves, improving skin feel and stability.
- Serves as an emollient in topical drug formulations for improved moisturizing and soothing effects.
Secondary Uses
- Industrial Applications
- Used in polishes, wax blends, and coatings to impart gloss and improve surface texture.
- Acts as a lubricant and anti-static agent in certain plastics and textile applications.
- Food Industry
- Occasionally used in food packaging or coatings, subject to regulatory approval.
- Research & Development
- Utilized as an ingredient in experimental formulations for novel cosmetic or pharmaceutical products.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Hexadecyl hexadecanoate
- Common/Trade Name: Cetyl Palmitate
- CAS Number: 540-10-3
- HS Code: 2915.99.90
- Molecular Formula: C32H64O2
- Molecular Weight: 480.86 g/mol
- Synonyms:
- Cetyl hexadecanoate
- Palmityl cetyl ester
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid waxy flakes or pastilles
- Color & Odor: White to pale yellow; mild fatty odor
- Melting Point: 45–50°C (113–122°F)
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
- Density: ~0.88 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Solubility:
- Insoluble in water
- Soluble in oils, alcohol, chloroform
- Flash Point: ~250°C (decomposition)
- Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 0
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: Not established
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally recognized as safe in cosmetic and pharmaceutical use
- Reactivity: Stable; may decompose at high temperatures
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and ignition sources
- Container Type: Sealed plastic or metal containers
- Shelf Life: Up to 3 years if stored properly
- Special Handling: Avoid dust and excessive heat; use PPE when handling bulk quantities
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
- REACH Status: Registered
- Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous
- Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local environmental regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact; biodegradable
- Persistence: Biodegradable
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE: Gloves and protective eyewear recommended when handling in bulk
- Handling: Avoid dust inhalation and skin contact with molten product
- Storage: Keep containers tightly sealed and stored 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 attention if breathing difficulties occur
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Flush with water for 15 minutes; consult physician if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Low toxicity; rinse mouth and seek medical advice if large amounts ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible; may release smoke and toxic fumes on burning
- Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical powder, CO₂, or water spray
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
- Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons
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