Isopropyl Palmitate
Isopropyl Palmitate IPP is a clear, colorless to pale yellow oily liquid formed by the esterification of isopropyl alcohol and palmitic acid. It has a mild odor and is widely used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations as an emollient, lubricant, and solvent. IPP is valued for its excellent skin absorption, non-greasy feel, and ability to improve texture and spreadability of topical products.
Isopropyl Palmitate (IPP)
Primary Uses
- Cosmetic and Personal Care Industry
- Functions as an emollient and moisturizer in creams, lotions, makeup, sunscreens, deodorants, and hair care products, providing a smooth, silky, and non-greasy skin feel.
- Acts as a penetration enhancer, improving the absorption of active ingredients into the skin.
- Serves as a solvent for fragrances, oils, and other cosmetic ingredients to ensure stable and homogeneous formulations.
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Used as a vehicle and emollient in topical creams, ointments, and gels to facilitate drug delivery and enhance skin absorption.
- Fragrance Industry
- Utilized as a solvent and fixative in perfumes and colognes to improve scent longevity and dispersion.
- Industrial Applications
- Applied as a lubricant and anti-static agent in plastic, rubber, and textile processing.
- Used as a carrier solvent in insect repellents and pesticide formulations.
Secondary Uses
- Food Industry
- Occasionally used as a flavor carrier in specific food-grade applications, subject to regulatory approvals.
- Hair Care Products
- Incorporated in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products to enhance softness and reduce greasy residue.
- Cleaning and Polishing Products
- Used in specialized polishes and cleaning agents for its lubricating and spreading properties.
- Veterinary Use
- Employed in topical veterinary formulations to improve skin condition and facilitate drug absorption.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Propan-2-yl hexadecanoate
- Common/Trade Name: Isopropyl Palmitate; IPP
- CAS Number: 142-91-6
- HS Code: 2915.70.00
- Synonyms: Isopropyl hexadecanoate; IPP
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Clear oily liquid
- Color & Odor: Colorless to pale yellow; mild odor
- Boiling Point: Approx. 275–280 °C
- Melting Point: −3 °C
- Density: Approx. 0.85 g/cm³
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in most organic solvents
- Flash Point: Approx. 140 °C
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification:
- Not classified as hazardous under normal use
- May cause mild skin or eye irritation in sensitive individuals
Toxicity:
- Low toxicity; widely regarded as safe in cosmetic and pharmaceutical uses
Exposure Limits:
- No established occupational exposure limits
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions:
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizing agents
Container Type:
- Stored in sealed plastic or metal containers
Shelf Life:
- Stable for 2 to 3 years under proper storage conditions
Handling Precautions:
- Avoid prolonged skin contact and inhalation of vapors
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling in bulk
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Approved for use in cosmetics and topical pharmaceuticals by regulatory agencies such as FDA and EMA
- Complies with REACH and other global chemical safety standards
- Labeling must comply with cosmetic ingredient regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life; avoid environmental release
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required:
- Gloves and safety goggles recommended when handling bulk material
Handling Guidelines:
- Avoid skin and eye contact
- Use in well-ventilated areas
Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly closed and away from heat and ignition sources
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move affected person to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation occurs
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; get medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical attention if large amounts ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible liquid; will burn though with low flame spread
- Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide extinguishers
- Special Precautions: Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus if involved in fire
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and irritating vapors
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