Overview
12-Hydroxystearic acid (CAS 106-14-9 ), commonly abbreviated as 12-HSA, is a hydroxy fatty acid derived from castor oil hydrogenation. It functions as a primary building block for rheology modifiers and lubricant thickeners.
This versatile chemical serves as a critical component for emulsifiers across multiple industrial sectors. In lubricant manufacturing, it is the key precursor for lithium and calcium soap greases.
The material determines thickener structure and ultimately controls grease consistency and performance. Plastics processors use it as an internal and external lubricant in PVC and other polymer compounds.
It reduces friction during extrusion and improves the surface finish of finished parts. Personal care formulators incorporate it into stick products, balms, and anhydrous formulations to build structure.
It modifies texture without relying on synthetic waxes and functions as a dispersing agent in pigment pastes. It also acts as an emulsifier in industrial coatings, helping stabilize particle distribution.
The product is supplied as a white to off-white solid, available in flake or pastille form for ease of handling. Standard commercial grades are available at purity levels of 90% and above.
Higher-purity grades are offered for cosmetic and specialty applications. Both technical and cosmetic-grade material are commonly stocked, with specifications varying by hydroxyl value and free fatty acid content.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 82 °C |
| Boiling Point | 180 °C |
| Density | 1.0238 (rough estimate) |
| Appearance | white to slightly beige powder or flakes |
| Color | White |
| Form | Crystalline |
| Water Solubility | Soluble in ether, alcohol and chloroform. Insoluble in water. |
| Vapor Pressure | 0Pa at 20℃ |
| Refractive Index | 1.4200 (estimate) |
| Log P | 5.7 |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 GHS09 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation H400 Very toxic to aquatic life Precautionary Statements P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29181990 |
| Storage Class | 13 - Non Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 106-14-9
- EC Number
- 203-366-1
- Mol. Weight
- 300.5
- HS Code
- 29181990
- Category
- Surfactants