Glycerol Monostearate (GMS) Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Glycerol Monostearate (GMS) Extra Pure is a high-purity, white, odorless, and tasteless powder or flake widely used as an emulsifier, thickening agent, and stabilizer. In laboratory and industrial settings, it is particularly valuable for its role in forming stable emulsions in aqueous and oily systems. Commonly used in food science experiments, pharmaceutical formulations, and cosmetic product development, GMS improves consistency and shelf-life. It also serves as a dispersing agent and plasticizer in various polymer applications. Its extra pure grade ensures reliable performance where precision and chemical cleanliness are required.
USES
Primary Laboratory Uses:
- Emulsifier in formulation research:
Commonly used in laboratory studies to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, particularly in food science, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical research. - Controlled-release matrix in drug formulation studies:
Serves as a lipid-based excipient in sustained or delayed drug delivery systems for experimental pharmaceutical applications.
Secondary Laboratory Uses:
- Surfactant in dispersion and coating trials:
Acts as a wetting agent or dispersant in various chemical and biological coatings, helping distribute active compounds evenly. - Texture modifier in food simulation experiments:
Utilized in model food systems to mimic texture and mouthfeel, especially in studies involving fats and fat replacers. - Carrier in encapsulation studies:
Used to develop microencapsulation techniques for active ingredients like vitamins or enzymes.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Glycerol Monostearate
- Other Names: GMS, Glyceryl Monostearate, Monostearin
- Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₄₂O₄
- CAS Number: 31566-31-1 (or 123-94-4 for general GMS)
- Molecular Weight: ~358.56 g/mol
- Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory/Reagent Grade)
- Appearance: White to off-white flaky powder or waxy solid
- Odor: Mild or odorless
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Melting Point: 55–65 °C
- Solubility:
- Insoluble in water
- Soluble in ethanol, acetone, and hot oils/fats
- Density: ~1.03 g/cm³
- Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB): ~3.8 (acts as a low-HLB emulsifier)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Classification (GHS):
✅ Not classified as hazardous under normal lab use - Hazard Statements:
- May cause mild skin or eye irritation on prolonged contact
- PPE Requirements:
- Lab coat
- Gloves (nitrile or latex)
- Safety goggles
- First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for several minutes
- Ingestion: Non-toxic in small amounts; seek medical advice if large quantity ingested
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Keep container tightly closed
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and moisture
- Avoid contamination with oxidizing agents
- Handling Notes:
- Avoid dust formation during transfer
- Clean spills to prevent slipping hazards
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Food/Pharma Relevance:
- GRAS status (Generally Recognized As Safe) in food/pharma at specific grades
- Commonly used as an emulsifier, thickener, or anti-caking agent
- Labeling Compliance:
- Label as per GHS even if non-hazardous for lab tracking
- Include batch and expiry details for accurate lab use
6. Laboratory Applications
- Primary Uses:
- Used as an emulsifying agent in chemical formulations
- Carrier or stabilizer in enzyme/protein-based systems
- Coating agent or excipient in lab-scale pharmaceutical formulations
- Secondary Uses:
- Controlled-release agent in drug delivery research
- Stabilizer in cosmetic and personal care product testing
- Reference standard for lipid and fat analysis
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear a lab coat, nitrile gloves, and protective goggles.
- Use a dust mask or operate in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of fine particles.
Handling:
- Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
- Minimize dust generation and accumulation.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
- Keep the container tightly sealed.
- Protect from moisture and incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move the affected person to fresh air.
- Seek medical advice if respiratory discomfort or irritation occurs.
Skin Contact:
- Wash with soap and plenty of water.
- Remove contaminated clothing.
- Seek medical attention if irritation develops.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with clean water for several minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek medical advice if symptoms occur or large amounts are ingested.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Combustible under fire conditions; may form combustible dust-air mixtures.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use dry chemical, foam, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or water spray.
- Avoid high-pressure water jets that may spread burning material.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May emit carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and acrolein when decomposed by heat.
Firefighter Protection:
- Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
- Avoid inhalation of combustion fumes.