Glyceryl tris(12-hydroxystearate)

Glyceryl tris(12-hydroxystearate), also known as trihydroxystearin or by the trade name Kao Wax 85, is a triester formed from glycerol and 12-hydroxystearic acid. Registered under CAS 139-44-6 and EC 205-364-6, it carries no E-code designation and is sometimes abbreviated in formulation literature as tri-12-hydroxystearin.

In lubricant and metalworking formulations, trihydroxystearin functions as a structuring agent, forming a three-dimensional gel network that controls flow and prevents separation of oil phases. In personal care and coatings applications, it modifies rheology by thickening non-polar systems and acts as a dispersant, stabilising pigment or active ingredient distribution throughout the matrix.

Trihydroxystearin is supplied in solid form and is subject to REACH registration requirements for EU market entry. Procurement teams should confirm food-contact or cosmetic compliance with the relevant supplier documentation, as grade specifications vary between industrial, personal care, and food-adjacent applications.