Magnesium stearate

Magnesium stearate (CAS 557-04-0), also designated E470B in food and feed applications, is a magnesium salt of stearic acid used in pharmaceutical, food, and industrial manufacturing.

Where is Magnesium stearate used?

• Pharmaceutical tablets and capsules: prevents powder blends from sticking to punches and dies
• Food and nutraceutical powders: anti-caking and flow agent in blends, seasonings, and supplement capsules
• Plastics: release agent and stabilizer for PVC and other polymer compounds
• Personal care: improves slip, binding, and texture uniformity in pressed powders and compacts
• It reduces friction between particles and contact surfaces during processing and compaction.
• Improves the adherence of cosmetic formulations.
• In plastics and rubber, used as a mold release agent, lubricant, and anti-blocking agent.

Formulation notes

• Typical level in compressed tablets is 0.25% to 1.5%.

Typical specification

• Surface area of 5-10 m2/g.
• Can exist in anhydrous, mono-, di- and trihydrate forms.
• Pharmaceutical grade complies with USP/BP/EP/IP pharmacopoeia monographs and is used as a tablet lubricant, capsule filling aid, and pharma excipient.
• Cosmetic grade is available with purified, fine particle size for cosmetics, creams, and lotions.

Regulatory status

• WGK Germany classification nwg (not water endangering).

Storage, packaging and handling

• Store at ambient temperature.

Frequently asked questions about Magnesium stearate

What grades are available for industrial applications?

An industrial grade is available for plastics, rubber, and paints.

What are the solubility characteristics?

It is insoluble in water and in low molecular weight alcohols, esters, and ketones, and soluble in aromatic components.

What is vegetable grade magnesium stearate?

Vegetable grade is derived from plant-based stearic acid and is used in vegan, vegetarian, and clean-label supplement products.

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