Sodium Stearate
Sodium Octadecanoate, Stearic Acid Sodium Salt.
- CAS
- 822-16-2
- EC
- 212-490-5
- Sectors
- Personal Care & Cosmetics, Plastics & Polymers, Pharma & Healthcare
Sodium Stearate (CAS 822-16-2) is the sodium salt of stearic acid, a white to off-white powder that serves as a primary emulsifier and gelling agent in soaps, creams and lotions, a heat stabilizer in plastics, and a waterproofing and binding agent in pharmaceutical formulations. It is the most common component of high-quality soaps, serving as a primary emulsifier and gelling agent.
This white solid offers excellent surface-active properties, providing stability to oil-in-water emulsions in creams and lotions. It also acts as a powerful internal lubricant and heat stabilizer in the plastics industry.
In pharmaceutical applications, it provides waterproofing and binding properties for topical and oral formulations. It is a stable fatty acid salt that ensures consistent texture and application in personal care products.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C18H36O2.Na |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 306.46 g/mol |
| Appearance | white to off-white powder |
| Form | Powder |
| Color | white |
| Odor | wh. fine powd., fatty (tallow) odor |
| Melting point | 225 °C |
| Density | 0.854 g/cm³ (liquid) |
| Water solubility | SOLUBLE IN COLD AND HOT WATER |
| GHS signal word | Warning · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 29157090 |
| Grades available | Cosmetic Grade, Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Sodium Stearate
Applications
- Solid Deodorants: Acts as the primary gelling agent that provides structural integrity and smooth application for stick products.
- Plastics Manufacturing: Functions as a heat stabilizer and processing aid in the extrusion of PVC and other polymer resins.
- Cosmetic Emulsions: Used in shaving foams and lotions to stabilize the mixture and improve skin feel and lubricity.
Safety & Risks
Considered low risk but carries Hazard Classification: Eye Irritant Category 2. Industrial handling requires PPE such as nitrile gloves and safety goggles.
Packaging
Standard packaging includes 20 kg or 25 kg Multi-wall Paper Bags and Fiber Drums for pharmaceutical grades.