Oleic acid

Oleic acid (CAS 112-80-1) is a long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid derived primarily from animal and vegetable fats. FEMA 2815.

Where is Oleic acid used?

• Personal care and cosmetics: emollient carrier and emulsification agent in creams, lotions and soap formulations
• Metalworking and industrial lubricants: cutting fluids and rust-inhibiting compounds that reduce friction
• Textile and leather processing: softening and wetting agent improving fiber flexibility and dye penetration
• Food and flavor: flavoring agent introducing fatty, oily notes in savory and dairy profiles
• Industrially it functions as an emulsifier, lubricant, surfactant and surface modifier.
• Used as an accelerator in the rubber industry.
• Acts as an intermediate for drilling and fracking fluids in the oil and gas industry.
• Used as an excipient in pharmaceutical products.

Good to know: Food-grade material conforms to FCC standards; food-grade and technical-grade are the most common commercial specifications.

Formulation notes

• Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and aluminum.

Typical specification

• For cosmetic applications, lighter color grades on the Gardner scale (1-3) are preferred.
• In metalworking fluids, moisture content should be below 0.5% to prevent microbial growth.
• Oleic acid 80% Min has a C-18:1 oleic acid content of 80.0% min.

Regulatory status

• Oleic acid imported or manufactured into the EEA at one tonne or more per year must be registered under REACH with ECHA.
• The HS classification is commonly 3823.12.00 for oleic acid, but the importer must confirm the final local tariff code with its customs adviser.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Air sensitive; should be kept in a tightly closed container in a dry, well-ventilated place.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.