Properties and industrial uses of stearic acid

Stearic acid is nothing but a saturated fatty acid that consists of 18 carbon chain. The IUPAC name of this acid is octadecanoic acid. This waxy solid has a chemical formula of C17H35CO2H. This acid is exclusively obtained from oils and fats by the process of triglycerides saponification which is generally done using hot water. After saponification, the obtained mixture is then undergone the distillation process.

Where is stearic acid available?

It is found in fats and oils of both plants and animals. Samples of animal fat comprise 30% of stearic acid whereas; the plant oil has nearly 5% of it.

Production of stearic acid

In order to produce this acid, the first and the foremost step is to heat and pressurize the oils and fats that contain amino acids in it. Later on, the product is then placed in boiling water in a distillation machine. The steam obtained is then carried out by a series of chilling coils. Hence, the sudden fluctuation in temperature results in condensing and liquefying the stearic acids. Lastly, it is cooled to produce waxy solid. The stearic acid wholesale suppliers in India offer this product in various packages to meet the diverse requirements of the market.

Uses

Stearic acids have its several uses:

• Soaps, cosmetics, detergents Production: This acid is generally used in producing soaps, detergents as well as other cosmetics that include shaving cream, shampoos etc. However, the manufacturing process of soaps doesn’t include a direct process with stearic acid, but, is manufactured indirectly using the saponification of triglycerides that comprises of esters of stearic acids. Whereas, shampoo, soaps, and other cosmetic products are generally produced using esters of stearic acid in conjunction with glycol distearate, ethylene glycol, glycol stearate.

• Lubricants, softening and release agents: Especially in the textile industries for sizing textiles, the stearic acids are used in conjunction with castor oils to prepare softeners. The process includes heating and mixing up of caustic soda or caustic potash.

Why is Stearic acid used in soaps?

Stearic acid is known to have important cleansing properties. It acts as a surfactant by lowering down the tension of oils. This causes the water to get adhered with oil molecules and wash them away. Hence, it helps in removing dirt, sweat as well as sebum from body and hair.

There are a number of stearic acid suppliers in Gujarat. This acid is being manufactured under the defined condition. India, being a major supplier of stearic acid, ensures to meet the demand of every customers.

Thus, to conclude, however, this acid is very common and is exclusively brought in use in manufacturing several skin care products as well as hair care products.