Oleyl alcohol

Oleyl alcohol (CAS 143-28-2) is a long-chain fatty alcohol derived from oleic acid. Also supplied under trade designations such as Witcohol 85 and Witcohol 90.

Where is Oleyl alcohol used?

• Personal care and cosmetics: emollient, emulsifier, carrier solvent and surface-active agent that conditions skin and hair in creams, lotions and conditioning rinses
• Textile processing: softening and lubricating agent in fiber finishing
• Printing inks and coatings: solvent carrier and wetting agent for pigment dispersion and viscosity control
• Leather treatment: penetrates and softens hides
• It improves handle and reduces friction in yarn and fabric production.

Good to know: Technical grade is for industrial use; cosmetic or high-purity grades meet personal care specifications. Typical purity is approximately 85% to 90%+ oleyl alcohol content, reflecting the Witcohol-grade designations.

Commercial specifications

• Purity: approximately 85% to 90%+ oleyl alcohol content
• Cosmetic or high-purity grades for personal care manufacturing