Overview
Cerotic acid (CAS 506-46-7 ), also known as hexacosanoic acid, is a long-chain saturated fatty acid derived primarily from natural waxes such as beeswax and carnauba wax.
It functions as a structuring agent, emulsifier, and lubricant across cosmetic, food, and industrial formulations. In personal care, it contributes to the hardness and texture of stick formulations.
This includes lipsticks, solid balms, and wax-based emollients. Food-grade material is used as a surface coating and release agent in confectionery and bakery products where controlled wax deposition is required.
Industrial lubricant manufacturers incorporate it into metalworking compounds and high-temperature grease formulations. Long-chain fatty acids improve film strength and thermal stability in these settings.
It also serves as a raw material in the synthesis of fatty acid esters used as specialty emulsifiers and plasticizers. Cerotic acid is supplied as a white to off-white powder or flake solid.
Standard commercial grades include technical and food-grade specifications, with purity levels typically ranging from 90% to 98%+ depending on application requirements. Quality standards may include FCC .
Material sourced from natural wax fractionation may carry additional certifications relevant to food and cosmetic buyers. This ensures compliance with international safety and manufacturing protocols.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 88.5 °C |
| Boiling Point | 250 °C |
| Density | 0.81 |
| Flash Point | >110°C |
| Appearance | white shiny fluffy or crystalline powder |
| Color | White |
| Form | Shiny Fluffy or Crystalline Powder |
| Refractive Index | 1.4301 |
| Log P | 12.470 (est) |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation 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. 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). 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 | 29159000 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 506-46-7
- EC Number
- 208-040-2
- Mol. Weight
- 396.7
- HS Code
- 29159000
- Category
- Organic Acids