Cashew nutshell oil

Cashew nutshell oil (CAS 8007-24-7), also known commercially as cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL), is a natural phenolic oil extracted from the shell of the cashew nut.

Where is Cashew nutshell oil used?

• Coatings and varnishes: CNSL-derived resins for heat resistance and chemical durability
• Friction materials: binder resin component for controlled thermal performance
• Brake pads and clutch linings: friction-modifying properties
• Rubber compounding and tires: processing aid and plasticizer improving flow without compromising cure
• Adhesives and sealants: reactive modifier adjusting viscosity and cross-link density in phenolic and epoxy systems
• It serves as a reactive bio-based raw material and processing aid in polymer systems.

Good to know: Technical-grade CNSL is the standard commercial form; natural and technical variants exist. The heat-treated technical version has a different phenolic composition relevant to downstream reactivity and chemical synthesis.

Commercial specifications

• Refined and distilled grades for reduced color or controlled cardanol content
• Batches controlled for moisture content, viscosity, and volatile matter