Oleic Acid (CAS 112-80-1): Fatty Acid Chemistry for Formulations, Lubricants, and Synthesis
Oleic acid — cis-9-octadecenoic acid — is the principal monounsaturated fatty acid of commercial vegetable oils and a foundational oleochemical. Its long hydrophobic chain with a single cis double bond gives a liquid, relatively oxidation-stable profile that suits surfactants, ester lubricants, cosmetics, and chemical synthesis.
Chemical Identity and Key Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 112-80-1 |
| Molecular Formula | C18H34O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 282.26 g/mol |
| Density | 0.89 |
Surfactant and Soap Chemistry
Neutralization with alkali yields oleate soaps; ethoxylation and esterification with alcohols and sugars yield nonionic and anionic surfactants for household, industrial, and personal-care formulations.
Lubricants and Esters
Esters of oleic acid (methyl, butyl, 2-ethylhexyl, and trimethylolpropane variants) serve as lubricant base stocks, plasticizer-co-stabilizers in PVC, and spinning-lubricant components where biodegradability is valued.
Synthesis Applications
The cis double bond supports ozonolysis (splitting to azelaic and pelargonic acids — the nylon-9,9 value chain), epoxidation to plasticizer intermediates, and metathesis feedstock chemistry; the carboxyl is a handle for amides (including oleamide slip agents) and surfactant intermediates.
Grades and Purity
Commercial "oleic acid" is typically 70–90% C18:1 with balance linoleic, stearic, and palmitic acids; high-purity (>90–99%) material from fractional distillation supports analytical, pharma, and high-end formulation use. Iodine value, acid value, saponification value, color, and C8–C10 low-molecule impurities define grade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between technical and high-purity oleic acid?
Technical grades (bulk fatty-acid cuts) vary in C18:1 content and iodine value; high-purity distilled grades offer >90–99% oleic with defined impurity profile for specialty formulations.
How should oleic acid be stored?
Sealed containers, limited air/light exposure, and cool storage reduce oxidation and color drift; nitrogen blanketing extends shelf life for sensitive grades.
Can CoreyChem supply high-purity oleic acid?
Yes — multiple purity grades with COA including fatty-acid composition can be provided for formulation and synthesis use.
Source from CoreyChem
CoreyChem supplies 9-Octadecenoic Acid (CAS 112-80-1) with lot-specific COA and MSDS documentation. Custom synthesis, higher purity grades, and bulk packaging are available on request — contact our technical team with your target specification and quantity for current lead time and pricing.