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Cetyl palmitate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C32H64O2
CAS number
540-10-3
IUPAC name
hexadecyl hexadecanoate
State
State
Solid at room temperature, presenting as a wax-like substance with limited solubility in water.
Melting point (Celsius)
48.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
321.20
Boiling point (Celsius)
372.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
645.70
General information
Molecular weight
480.85g/mol
Molar mass
480.8530g/mol
Density
0.8524g/cm3
Appearence

Cetyl palmitate is a white, waxy solid at room temperature. It is often used in cosmetic formulations, providing a creamy texture and serving as an emollient.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hexadecyl Hexadecanoate

Hexadecyl hexadecanoate, also known as cetyl palmitate, is an ester formed from the reaction of hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid) and hexadecanol (cetyl alcohol). The solubility of this compound can be influenced by several factors:

  • Hydrophobic Nature: Due to its long hydrocarbon chains, hexadecyl hexadecanoate is predominantly hydrophobic, which typically leads to low solubility in water.
  • Solvent Variability: It is more soluble in non-polar organic solvents, including hexane and chloroform. This characteristic aligns with the principle of "like dissolves like."
  • Temperature Influence: Solubility tends to increase with temperature; hence, heating can enhance its solubility in organic solvents.

In conclusion, while hexadecyl hexadecanoate is generally poorly soluble in water, it exhibits a favorable solubility profile in non-polar solvents and its behavior can be further modified by temperature. This property makes it valuable in various applications, especially in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Hexadecyl Hexadecanoate

Hexadecyl hexadecanoate, also known as cetyl palmitate, is an ester formed from hexadecanol (a long-chain alcohol) and hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid). This compound holds an important place in both the chemical and cosmetic industries due to its unique properties. Here are some intriguing facts about this compound:

  • Emollient Properties: Hexadecyl hexadecanoate is widely recognized for its moisturizing capabilities. It acts as an emollient, providing a smooth and soft feel to the skin, which is why it is often found in lotions and creams.
  • Surfactant Use: This compound serves as a surfactant, meaning it can reduce the surface tension of liquids. This characteristic is crucial in the formulation of various cleaning and personal care products.
  • Biodegradable: As a naturally derived ester, hexadecyl hexadecanoate is considered biodegradable, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to synthetic alternatives.
  • Cosmetic Enhancer: In the beauty industry, it is often included as a thickening agent in cosmetic formulations, improving texture and stability.
  • Health Considerations: While generally recognized as safe, it is always advisable to conduct patch tests as some individuals may experience hypersensitivity to certain esters.

In summary, hexadecyl hexadecanoate is not only a versatile compound with significant applications in the cosmetic and cleaning industries but also exemplifies the balance between effective performance and environmental consideration. Its ongoing use highlights the importance of esters in enhancing our daily personal care routines.

Synonyms
Cetyl palmitate
Hexadecyl palmitate
540-10-3
Palmityl palmitate
Hexadecyl hexadecanoate
Cetin
Hexadecanoic acid, hexadecyl ester
hexadecanyl hexadecanoate
Standamul 1616
Hexadecanoic acid hexadecyl ester
n-Hexadecyl hexadecanoate
MFCD00053739
Palmitic acid palmityl ester
Cetyl palmitate [NF]
PALMITIC ACID, HEXADECYL ESTER
palmitic acid, cetyl ester
5ZA2S6B08X
CHEBI:75584
WE(16:0/16:0)
95912-87-1
Cetyl palmitate (NF)
100231-74-1
Palmitic Acid Hexadecyl Ester
n-hexadecyl palmitate
EINECS 208-736-6
BRN 1805188
UNII-5ZA2S6B08X
Schercemol CP
Crodamol CP
Precifac ATO
Starfol CP
Cutina CP
C32H64O2
EINECS 309-375-8
Waxenol 815
Kessco 653
n-hexadecanyl palmitate
Radia 7500
SCHEMBL44487
CETYL PALMITATE [II]
CETYL PALMITATE [MI]
N-HEXYLDECYL PALMITATE
Palmityl palmitate, >=99%
Palmatic acid n-hexadecyl ester
CETYL PALMITATE [VANDF]
CETYL PALMITATE [MART.]
CHEMBL2106073
DTXSID5047114
CETYL PALMITATE [USP-RS]
CETYL PALMITATE [WHO-DD]
YFC06615
EINECS 306-083-2
Hexadecyl ester of hexadecanoic acid
LMFA07010001
AKOS015903369
CETYL PALMITATE [EP MONOGRAPH]
CS-W011523
HY-W010807
DS-11394
SY010863
DB-052456
NS00012089
P1077
D08888
D70209
EC 306-083-2
Q409361
Cetyl palmitate 15, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard
Cetyl palmitate 95, European Pharmacopoeia (EP) Reference Standard
Cetyl palmitate, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard
Cetyl Palmitate, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material