Lithium 12 hydroxy stearate

Types of lithium 12 hydroxy stearate in industrial applications

Cosmetics

Lithium 12-hydroxy stearate is used as an emulsifier in several cosmetics for softness. It is also a thickening agent to increase product viscosity. It is also useful in creams, lotions, and makeup as a stabilizer that reduces the likelihood of oil and water separation. This enables raw material manufacturers to create products with longer shelf lives.

Lubricants

Lithium 12-hydroxy stearate is a key ingredient in many lubricating greases. Its great heat stability allows it to maintain its consistency and effectiveness in extreme temperatures. Additionally, because of its ability to act as a thickening agent, it increases the viscosity of lubricants and prevents the separation of base oils. This results in a smoother application. It also provides longer-lasting protection against wear and tear in mechanical systems. The lithium grease prevents breakdown and maintains its properties over longer periods compared to non-lithium-based greases. This makes it ideal for industrial applications.

Plastics

Lithium 12-hydroxy stearate is widely used as a lubricating additive during the manufacture of various types of plastics. It helps improve the flow of plastic materials during molding and extrusion which in turn reduces friction and enhances the processing of these materials. In its end use, it also helps in the reduction of surface defects and improves the mechanical properties of the final product as well as aids in the uniform distribution of fillers within the plastic matrix.

Textiles

In the textiles industry, lithium 12-hydroxy stearate serves as a lubricant during the processing of fibers, yarns where it reduces friction and prevents the buildup of residues on industrial equipment. This helps in improving the quality of the final textile product by providing a smoother finish and enhancing the dye uptake in fabrics. In addition, it acts as a release agent in the production of synthetic fibers and ensures easy extraction from molds without damaging the material.

Specifications & Key Features of lithium 12 hydroxy steyarate

Technical specifications

• Molecular formula: C37H71O4Li
• Molecular weight: 596.000
• CAS number: 76226-18-7
• EINECS number: 274-663-9

Key features

• Emulsifying agent: Lithium 12-hydroxy stearate acts as an effective emulsifying agent that helps stabilize mixtures of oil and water-based ingredients. This is especially helpful in a wide range of industries such as cosmetics, lubricants, and pharmaceuticals.
• High temperature resistance: As mentioned earlier, lithium stearate has excellent thermal stability. Thus, it does not easily break down or lose its thickening properties at elevated temperatures. This makes it particularly suitable for greases and lubricants that are used in high-temperature environments.
• Biodegradability: Manufactured from stearic acid which is a natural fatty acid found in vegetable and animal fats, lithium 12-hydroxy stearate is a more environmentally friendly option when compared to other synthetic emulsifiers and thickeners. This makes it a more sustainable choice for manufacturers.
• Improved texture: In cosmetic formulations, lithium 12-hydroxy stearate contributes to the desired creamy or smooth texture. This makes creams, lotions and other topical products more appealing to consumers.
• Anti-static properties: It possesses anti-static properties that help in reducing static electricity in textiles and other materials. This reduces dust attraction and improves the handling of powdery substances.

How to Choose the Product

• Going for trustworthy suppliers with a proven record in distributing industrial-grade lithium 12-hydroxy stearate should be a buyer's priority. Supplies that have served reputable companies in industries like cosmetics, lubricants, or plastics are likely to have materials of the right quality for the required application.
• Since this compound has different purity levels, buyers should ensure they get the appropriate grade. Pharmaceutical or cosmetics industries, for instance, tout the need for high purity technical grades that are not contaminated by hazardous substances. Industrial users might, however, require lower purity grades depending on their use.
• Buyers should also pay close attention to the particle size or physical form of lithium 12-hydroxy stearate as it affects the ease of handling and mixing in different applications. Customers may require it to be in powder form, or in granules, depending on their specific use.
• Shipping and storage conditions are important factors in preventing cannabis products from degrading or being damaged. Buyers should consider a supplier's ability to ship products in a manner that supports their quality. Similarly, customers should have appropriate storage conditions for lithium products to avoid moisture or temperature exposure that may affect their quality.

Q&A

Q1: What roles does lithium 12-hydroxy stearate play in agriculture?

A1: Lithium stearate serves as a vital component in grease formulations meant for agricultural equipment. It provides longer wear protection for mechanical parts of tractors, plows, and other machinery exposed to extreme working conditions. Additionally, its emulsifying properties help stabilize pesticide formulations by ensuring that active ingredients are evenly distributed. This improves pesticide application and effectiveness in crop protection.

Q2: Can Lithium 12-Hydroxy Stearate Be Used in Food Products?

A2: No. Lithium 12-hydroxy stearate is not recommended for food applications due to its synthetic origin and potential chemical contaminants. There are other more food-safe emulsifiers available.

Q3: How does lithium 12-hydroxy stearate stabilize emulsions?

A3: Lithium 12-hydroxy stearate works by reducing the surface tension between the two immiscible phases, allowing them to mix more easily. Its molecular structure features both hydrophilic and lipophilic regions. These help it align at the interface to stabilize the emulsion.

Q4: How can buyers ensure consistent quality when purchasing lithium 12-hydroxy stearate in bulk?

A4: Buyers should first collaborate with reputable suppliers who provide quality assurance certifications like the ISO standard. It is also important for buyers to request samples and clearly communicate their required specifications like purity and particle size to avoid getting products of substandard quality.

Q5: What distinctions exist between lithium 12-hydroxy stearate and regular lithium stearate?

A5: While both compounds use lithium and stearic acid as constituents, 12-hydroxy stearate contains a hydroxyl group on the twelfth carbon atom of the stearic acid chain. This gives it distinct chemical properties that make it an effective emulsifier and thickening agent. Regular lithium stearate, however, is often applied in lithium-ion battery production and as a lubricant in industries.