Myristic Acid

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Myristic Acid is a saturated fatty acid with a 14-carbon chain, naturally found in nutmeg, coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and butter fat. It appears as a white crystalline solid with a faint odor. It is widely used in the manufacture of soaps, cosmetics, surfactants, and food additives due to its emollient and cleansing properties. Myristic Acid acts as a key intermediate in the production of esters, detergents, and lubricants.

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Categories: Emollients, Surfactants(cosmetic) Tags: Cosmetic grade acid, Fatty Acid, Myristic acid, Pharmaceutical excipient, Surfactant ingredient, Tetradecanoic acid

Description

Table of Contents

Myristic Acid

Primary Uses

Soap and Detergent Manufacturing
- Used as a cleansing agent and foam booster in bar soaps and liquid detergents.
- Enhances hardness and lather quality of soaps.
Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
- Used in creams, lotions, and hair care products as an emollient and thickening agent.
- Provides smooth texture and moisturizing properties.
Surfactants and Emulsifiers
- Serves as a raw material for fatty acid esters used in surfactants and emulsifiers.
- Used in the production of detergents, shampoos, and cleansing products.
Food Industry
- Used as a flavoring agent and texture enhancer in food formulations (approved as food additive E570).

Secondary Uses

Lubricants and Greases
- Utilized as a component in the synthesis of lubricants and greases for improved performance.
Pharmaceuticals
- Used in ointments and creams as a thickener and emollient.
Plasticizers and Additives
- Employed as an intermediate in plasticizer production.
Industrial Chemicals
- Used in the synthesis of myristates and other chemical intermediates.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Tetradecanoic acid
Common/Trade Name: Myristic Acid
CAS Number: 544-63-8
HS Code: 2915.71
Synonyms: Tetradecylic acid

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: White crystalline solid
Color & Odor: White; faint fatty odor
Melting Point: 54.4°C
Boiling Point: 251°C (decomposes)
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol, ether, and oils
Density: 0.853 g/cm³

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under normal handling
Toxicity: Low toxicity; may cause mild skin irritation on prolonged contact
Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture
Container Type: Supplied in drums or bags
Shelf Life: Typically 1–2 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation of dust and prolonged skin contact

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Complies with REACH, FDA, and other relevant standards
Approved as a food additive and cosmetic ingredient

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Low environmental risk
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Gloves and safety goggles recommended
Handling Guidelines: Use dust mask if handling powder; avoid inhalation and skin contact
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed; protect from moisture

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if irritation occurs
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; discontinue use if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Rinse with water for 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical attention if large quantities ingested