Glycerol trioleate

Glycerol trioleate (CAS 122-32-7), also known as Triolein or glyceryl trioleate, is a triglyceride ester derived from glycerol and oleic acid. It functions as a lubricant, emulsifier, and moisturizing agent across industrial and consumer product applications. In lubricants and metalworking fluids, it serves as a base oil component or friction modifier, providing film-forming lubrication under moderate load conditions. Personal care formulators incorporate it into skin creams and hair conditioners.

Its oleic acid profile supports emollient performance and moisture retention in body oils. In food applications, Triolein is used as a reference standard for fat analysis and as a functional lipid ingredient in nutritional formulations. These formulations often target specific fatty acid profiles for dietary needs. It also functions as an emulsifier and dispersing agent in specialty formulations where controlled lipid delivery is required for the final product.

Glycerol trioleate is supplied as a pale yellow to amber liquid. It is available in technical grade for industrial and lubricant applications, as well as high-purity grades suitable for food, nutritional, and cosmetic use. Specifications vary by supplier, with purity levels commonly ranging from 65% to 99%+ depending on the intended application. This versatility makes it a staple in both heavy industry and high-end consumer goods manufacturing.