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Oils, Fats & Waxes

Glyceryl monolaurate

CAS: 142-18-7

Overview

Glyceryl monolaurate (CAS 142-18-7 ), commonly abbreviated as GML and also known as monolaurin, is a monoglyceride ester derived from lauric acid and glycerol. It functions as an emulsifier, surfactant, and moisturizing agent across food manufacturing and personal care formulation.

In food processing, GML is used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions in products such as margarine, shortenings, and baked goods. It also extends shelf life by controlling fat crystal structure, ensuring product consistency over time.

Personal care formulators incorporate it into lotions, creams, and cleansers for its dual role as an emulsifier and skin-conditioning humectant. In cosmetic systems, it modifies surface wetting behavior, improving spreadability and texture.

This versatile ingredient is effective in both leave-on and rinse-off formats. It also functions as a lubricant in certain food-contact and industrial processing applications where a food-safe, lipid-based additive is required.

Glyceryl monolaurate is supplied as a white to off-white powder, flake, or waxy solid. Food-grade and cosmetic-grade specifications are the most commercially prevalent, ensuring safety and performance across diverse industries.

Material often meets FCC or Ph. Eur. standards depending on the intended application. Purity grades typically range from technical to high-purity monoglyceride concentrations above 90% for specialized uses.

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Physical Properties

Melting Point62-63 °C
Boiling Point186 °C / 1mmHg
Density0.9764 (rough estimate)
ColorWhite to Almost white
Formpowder to crystal
Water Solubility6mg/L
Refractive Index1.4350 (estimate)
Log P4.029 (est)

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H319 Causes serious eye irritation Precautionary Statements P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. 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 Code2918.19.9000
Storage Class11 - Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany)1

Other Names

Glyceryl 1-laurate | 1-monolaurin | 23-dihydroxypropyl dodecanoate | GML

Related Products

Chemical Properties

CAS Number
142-18-7
EC Number
205-526-6
Mol. Weight
274.40
HS Code
2918.19.9000

Industries

Documentation