Nervonic acid

Nervonic acid (CAS 506-37-6, EC 610-549-3), also known as selacholeic acid or nervonate, is a long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid with the molecular formula C24H46O2. It occurs naturally in fish oils, mustard seed oil, and mammalian nerve tissue. No E-code designation applies to this substance.

In personal care formulations, nervonic acid functions as an emollient and skin conditioner by integrating into the lipid barrier and reducing transepidermal water loss. In emulsion systems, its C24 chain length provides steric stabilisation at oil-water interfaces. Industrial lubricant formulators use it as a boundary lubricant where its polar carboxyl group anchors to metal surfaces.

Nervonic acid is supplied in liquid form and is subject to REACH registration requirements for EU-based procurement. Buyers should confirm supplier documentation for purity grade, origin traceability, and compliance with applicable cosmetic ingredient regulations under EU Regulation 1223/2009. Standard packaging formats vary by supplier volume tier.