Myristic acid

Myristic acid (CAS 544-63-8), also known as tetradecanoic acid, is a saturated C14 fatty acid derived primarily from coconut and palm kernel oils. It functions as an emulsifier, surface modifier, and lubricant across food, personal care, and industrial manufacturing.

In personal care, it is a key building block for soap and surfactant production. It reacts with alkalis to form myristate salts that deliver dense, stable lather in bar soaps and cleansers.

Food manufacturers use it as a flavoring agent (FEMA 2764) and processing aid in confectionery, dairy analogs, and baked goods. It is particularly useful in applications where controlled fat crystallization matters.

In metalworking and industrial lubrication, this acid acts as a boundary lubricant and metal surface modifier. It is frequently incorporated into cutting fluids and various corrosion-inhibiting formulations.

Cosmetic formulators also use it to adjust texture and consistency in creams and pressed powders. Its versatile chemical structure allows for precise control over the final product's tactile properties and stability.

The material is supplied as white flakes or a fine powder, with purity typically ranging from 95% to 99%+. Standard grades include food-grade and cosmetic-grade material meeting FCC and USP specifications.

Technical grade is available for industrial lubrication and surface treatment applications. This grade is suitable for processes where tighter purity thresholds are not required for the final application.