Arachidic alcohol

Arachidic alcohol (CAS 629-96-9), also known as 1-eicosanol, is a long-chain fatty alcohol derived from natural vegetable or synthetic sources. It functions as an emulsifier, rheology modifier, and lubricant across personal care, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations. In cosmetic and personal care products, it builds viscosity and stabilizes emulsions in creams, lotions, and hair conditioners. This contributes to a smooth, substantive texture without greasiness for the end user.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a waxy excipient in solid dosage forms and topical preparations. It is particularly useful where controlled release or specific emollient properties are required for the formulation. In lubricant and metalworking applications, its high melting point and film-forming behavior make it highly suitable. It is often used as a base component or additive in wax blends and solid lubricants.

It also functions as a dispersing agent and consistency factor in specialty industrial formulations. This is critical for applications where precise rheological control is needed for the manufacturing process. Arachidic alcohol is supplied as a white waxy solid, typically in flake or pastille form for ease of handling. It is available in cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications for various industries.

Purity levels are commonly at 95% or higher for sensitive applications. Technical-grade material is also offered for industrial and lubricant applications where stricter purity thresholds are not required.