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Palmitic acid

CAS Number
57-10-3
EC Number
200-312-9
Chemical Formula
C16H32O2
Molecular Weight
256.42 g/mol

Description

Palmitic acid (CAS 57-10-3 ), a saturated C16 fatty acid derived primarily from palm oil and animal fats, is a foundational raw material across food, personal care, and industrial manufacturing. FEMA 2832 status confirms its recognized use as a flavoring agent. It functions as an emulsifier, lubricant, and surface-active agent depending on the specific requirements of the end application. In personal care, this material is used to produce soaps, cleansers, and skin-conditioning emollients where it contributes to lather quality and skin feel for high-end cosmetic formulations. Food manufacturers use it as a flavoring component and as a building block for emulsifier synthesis, including mono- and diglycerides used in various baked goods and margarines. Metalworking and industrial lubricant formulators incorporate it into cutting fluids and greases, where its fatty acid chain provides boundary lubrication and metal surface adhesion. It also serves as a chemical intermediate in the production of surfactants, esters, and fatty acid derivatives for detergent and coating applications across several industrial sectors. Palmitic acid is supplied as white flakes or powder, with purity levels typically ranging from technical grade to food-grade and cosmetic-grade specifications for diverse manufacturing needs. FCC and USP grades are available for regulated food and pharmaceutical applications. Minimum purity of 98% is standard for most commercial grades, with higher-purity fractions available. Contact us for supply of Palmitic acid Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

pentadecanecarboxylic acid | palmitoic acid | palmitinic acid | n-hexadecoic acid | n-hexadecanoic acid | hexaectylic acid | hexadecylic acid | hexadecoic acid

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point61.8 °C
Boiling Point351.5 °C
Density0.8527 g/cm³ @ Temp: 62 °C
Flash Point>230 °F
Appearancewhite chips, crystals or powder
ColorWhite or almost white
Odorat 100.00 %. slightly waxy fatty
FormFlakes
Water Solubilityinsoluble
Vapor Pressure10 mm Hg ( 210 °C)
Refractive Index1.4273
Log P7.170

Safety & Handling

Warning
GHS07· Irritant

Hazard Statements

H315Causes skin irritation
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H335May cause respiratory irritation

Precautionary Statements

P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29157015
Storage Class13 - Non Combustible Solids