Hexacosanoic acid

Hexacosanoic acid (CAS 506-46-7) is a straight-chain saturated fatty acid with 26 carbon atoms, also known as cerotic acid, C26:0, or NSC 4205. It occurs naturally in beeswax, plant waxes, and certain seed oils. No E-code designation applies to this material.

In personal care formulations, hexacosanoic acid functions as a structuring agent and emulsifier, contributing to the rigidity of anhydrous systems such as lipsticks and balms by integrating into the wax matrix. In lubricant applications, its long saturated chain provides boundary lubrication through adsorption onto metal surfaces, reducing friction under load.

This material is supplied as a high-purity powder suitable for cosmetic and industrial grades, with compliance documentation available for REACH registration. Procurement teams should confirm specification sheets against relevant pharmacopoeial or food-grade standards where required. Standard packaging formats include fibre drums and multi-layer bags.