Stearic Acid

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Stearic Acid is a saturated long-chain fatty acid, appearing as a white, waxy solid with a mild, characteristic odor. It is a naturally occurring substance found in animal and vegetable fats and oils. As one of the most common fatty acids, it is a fundamental building block in the manufacture of a vast array of consumer and industrial products. Its key functions include use as a lubricant, softener, thickener, and emulsifier, making it an indispensable ingredient in industries ranging from plastics and rubber to cosmetics and food.

Description

Stearic Acid

Primary Uses

  1. Plastics & Polymer Manufacturing
  • Used as a powerful lubricant and release agent during PVC and other polymer processing, preventing sheets from sticking to equipment.
  • Acts as a plasticizer and flow enhancer.
  1. Rubber Processing
  • Serves as a softening agent and plasticizer, improving the plasticity and processability of rubber compounds.
  • Acts as a vulcanization activator.
  1. Cosmetic & Personal Care
  • Used as an emollient, thickener, and opacifying agent in creams, lotions, and soaps.
  • Helps stabilize emulsions and provides a smooth, luxurious texture.
  1. Pharmaceuticals
  • Employed as a tablet lubricant and binder in solid dosage formulations, ensuring efficient production and consistent drug release.
  1. Food & Beverage
  • Used as a binder, emulsifier, and anti-caking agent in food products (e.g., chewing gum, confectionery).

Secondary Uses

  1. Candles
  • Used to harden candles and control their burning rate.
  1. Metalworking
  • Used in the formulation of lubricants and processing aids for metal drawing and extrusion.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Octadecanoic acid
  • Common/Trade Name: Stearic Acid
  • CAS Number: 57-11-4
  • HS Code: 2915.70
  • Synonyms: n-Octadecanoic acid, C18:0

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Solid, crystalline flakes or powder
  • Color & Odor: White; mild, characteristic fatty odor
  • Melting Point: ~69-71°C
  • Boiling Point: ~361°C
  • Density: ~0.94 g/cm³
  • Solubility: Soluble in alcohols, ethers, chloroform; insoluble in water.

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • GHS Classification: May be classified as causing skin irritation (Category 2) and serious eye irritation (Category 2A).
  • Toxicity: Considered non-toxic. Low ingestion hazard.
  • Exposure Limits: Not typically established. Avoid dust formation.

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers.
  • Container Type: Bags, boxes, or drums.
  • Shelf Life: Excellent stability if stored properly.
  • Handling Precautions: Use with adequate ventilation. Minimize dust generation. Use gloves and safety glasses.

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) as a direct food additive.
  • Complies with other relevant regulations (REACH, etc.).

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable.
  • Ecotoxicity: Low ecotoxicity.
  • Bioaccumulation: Low potential for bioaccumulation.
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE Required: Safety glasses, gloves.
  • Handling Guidelines: Good general ventilation is sufficient.

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air.
  • Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Eye Contact: Flush with plenty of water for several minutes. Seek medical advice if irritation persists.
  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth. Drink plenty of water. Seek medical attention if feeling unwell.

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Combustible solid. Dust can form explosive mixtures with air.
  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂.