Sodium stearate

Sodium stearate (CAS 822-16-2) is the sodium salt of stearic acid, commercially available under trade names including Flexichem B, Prodhygine, and Nonsoul SN 1. It carries EC number 212-490-5 and does not hold an E-code designation for food use in the EU.

In personal care formulations, sodium stearate functions as the primary structuring agent in bar soaps, where it forms a crystalline matrix that controls hardness and lather quality. In PVC processing, it acts as a heat stabilizer and internal lubricant, reducing friction between polymer chains during extrusion and preventing thermal degradation at elevated temperatures.

Sodium stearate is supplied as a white to off-white powder and is available in technical, cosmetic, and food-contact grades compliant with REACH regulations. Relevant quality standards include Ph.Eur. and FCC monographs depending on application. Packaging typically ranges from 25 kg bags to bulk quantities for industrial procurement.