Methyl stearate
Description
Methyl stearate (CAS 112-61-8) is a fatty acid methyl ester derived from stearic acid, produced primarily through the esterification of stearic acid with methanol. It functions as a lubricant, emulsifier, and surface-active agent across industrial, cosmetic, and food-related manufacturing processes.
In lubricant and metalworking formulations, it acts as a base fluid or additive component where controlled viscosity and film-forming behavior reduce friction in machining and metal processing operations.
Personal care manufacturers incorporate it into creams, lotions, and hair conditioners as an emollient and emulsifier that improves texture and skin feel without contributing heavy residue.
Food-grade methyl stearate is used as a processing aid and release agent in baked goods and confectionery production. It also serves as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of fatty alcohols and surfactants.
The product is supplied as a white to off-white solid or flake at ambient temperature, transitioning to a clear liquid above its melting point. It is available in technical grade for industrial and oleochemical applications.
We also offer food-grade specifications meeting FCC standards. Bulk quantities are typically offered in drums or flexi-bags, with purity levels commonly at 95% or higher depending on the specific grade required.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 39.1 °C |
| Boiling Point | 443 °C |
| Density | 0.8498 g/cm³ @ Temp: 40 °C |
| Flash Point | >230 °F |
| Appearance | off-white to cream or light yellow paste |
| Color | Off-white to cream or light yellow |
| Odor | at 100.00 %. oily waxy |
| Form | Paste |
| Water Solubility | Soluble in chloroform. Insoluble in water. |
| Refractive Index | 1.4241 (estimate) |
| Log P | 8.350 |
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29157090 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
Stearic acid, methyl ester|Octadecanoic acid,methyl ester|N-Octadecanoic acid, methyl ester|Methyl N-octadecanoate|Methyl ester of octadecanoic acid|Methyl (Z)-9-octadecenoate|Metholene 2218|Kemester 9718
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