Lauryl stearate

Lauryl stearate (CAS 5303-25-3), also known commercially as dodecyl stearate, is a fatty acid ester produced from lauryl alcohol and stearic acid. It functions as a lubricant, plasticizer, and emollient across personal care, polymer, and industrial lubricant applications.

In personal care formulations, it contributes slip, skin feel, and moisture retention to creams, lotions, and color cosmetics without a heavy residue. Polymer processors incorporate it as an internal or external plasticizer to improve flow.

This processing aid helps reduce friction during extrusion and compounding of PVC and similar resins. In metalworking and industrial lubricant blends, it acts as a base component or additive that reduces surface friction effectively.

The material improves film formation on metal substrates and functions as an emulsifier and dispersing agent in specialty formulations. This is particularly useful where controlled oil-water interfacial behavior is required for the application.

Lauryl stearate is typically supplied as a waxy solid or flake at ambient temperature, with liquid form available at elevated temperatures. It is available in cosmetic-grade and technical-grade specifications for various markets.

These grades meet the purity requirements of personal care and industrial end markets respectively. Packaging options generally include bags for solid material and drums for bulk quantities to ensure safe transport and storage.