12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA)
12-HSA – Hydroxystearic Acid
What is 12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA)?
12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA – Hydroxystearic Acid) is a fatty acid with the chemical formula C₁₈H₃₆O₃, found as a white powder. It is derived from stearic acid and contains a hydroxyl group at the 12th carbon atom.
Naturally, it is found in plant sources such as coconut oil, castor oil, and palm oil. It has a higher melting point than stearic acid. It is a versatile raw material used in many areas of industry, from plastics to cosmetics, lubricants to pharmaceuticals.
Properties of 12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA)
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Physical Appearance: | White Powder |
| Chemical Formula: | C₁₈H₃₆O₃ (CH₃(CH₂)₁₀CH(OH)COOH) |
| Molecular Weight: | 300.48 g/mol |
| Packaging Type: | Bag |
| Other Names: | 12-HSA, Hydroxystearic Acid |
In Which Industries Is 12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA) Used?
12-HSA is a compound most commonly used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, polymer, and oil industries.
It is used in products such as hair care, skin care, and sunscreens in the cosmetics industry.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 12-HSA is used in the production of many different medical products such as insulin, anticancer drugs, hypertension drugs, and other medications.
In the polymer industry, 12-HSA is used in the production of many polymer products such as plastics, resins, and epoxy coatings.
In the oil industry, 12-HSA is used in the production of greases, oils, and other oil-based products.
How is 12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA) Produced?
12-Hydroxystearic acid (12-HSA) is a fatty acid distinguished by the presence of a hydroxyl group at the 12th position of stearic acid (an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid). The production of 12-HSA is carried out through microbial fermentation, as is the case with safranic acid synthesis.
Microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi produce 12-hydroxystearic acid in the presence of a nutrient source that can serve as a carbon source. This carbon source can be many things, such as glucose, lactose, molasses, or starch. The fermentation process is carried out under optimal conditions to best facilitate the growth, multiplication, and 12-HSA production of microorganisms. The resulting 12-HSA is purified through a series of separation and purification steps to obtain the final product.