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Organic Acids

Stearic acid

CAS: 57-11-4

Overview

Stearic acid ( CAS 57-11-4 ) is a saturated long-chain fatty acid derived primarily from animal fats and vegetable oils, available commercially as a refined industrial commodity. It functions as a lubricant, emulsifier, and processing aid across a broad range of manufacturing sectors.

The FEMA 3035 designation confirms its recognized status as a flavoring substance in food applications. In plastics and rubber processing, it acts as an internal lubricant and mold release agent, reducing friction during compounding.

This material improves surface finish in finished parts and is essential for high-volume manufacturing. Personal care manufacturers use it as a primary emulsifier and thickener in creams, lotions, and bar soaps, where it contributes body and texture.

Metalworking and lubricant producers incorporate it into greases, drawing compounds, and wire-pulling lubricants to reduce tool wear. It is also used in textile and leather processing as a softening and finishing agent during fabric treatment.

Stearic acid is supplied as white flakes, pastilles, or powder, with flake form being the most common for industrial handling. Standard commercial grades include technical, food-grade, and cosmetic-grade, with purity levels ranging from 90% to 99%+.

Specifications such as FCC and USP are available for food and pharmaceutical procurement requirements. These standards ensure the material meets rigorous safety and quality benchmarks for sensitive applications.

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Physical Properties

Melting Point69.4 °C
Boiling Point232 °C @ Press: 15 Torr
Density0.9408 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point>230 °F
Appearancewhite flakes
ColorWhite
Odorodorless mild fatty
Formpowder
Water Solubility0.1-1 g/100 mL at 23 ºC
Vapor Pressure1 mm Hg ( 173.7 °C)
Refractive Index1.4299
Log P8.22

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS07 GHS06 GHS09 Hazard Statements H301 Toxic if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H400 Very toxic to aquatic life Precautionary Statements P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P301+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code38231100
Storage Class11 - Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany)3

Other Names

octadecoic acid | octadecanoic acid | n-octadecanoic acidd | n-octadecanoic acid | FFA(18:0) | cetylacetic acid | 1-heptadecanecarboxylic acid | OLA

Related Products

Chemical Properties

CAS Number
57-11-4
EC Number
266-928-5
Mol. Weight
284.5
HS Code
38231100

Industries

Documentation