What is Lauric Acid? Lauric Acid (CAS 143-07-7)

Lauric acid, scientifically known as *dodecanoic acid* with the chemical formula *C₁₂H₂₄O₂* and CAS number *143-07-7*, is a remarkable saturated medium-chain fatty acid that has captured the attention of scientists, health enthusiasts, and industrial manufacturers alike. This white, crystalline powder with its subtle coconut-like aroma has become an indispensable ingredient across multiple industries. Lauric Acid (CAS 143-07-7)

First identified in natural sources, lauric acid stands out among fatty acids for its unique combination of chemical stability, antimicrobial properties, and versatile applications. From your morning skincare routine to the food on your table, this unassuming compound plays a surprisingly significant role in daily life.

Lauric Acid for sale

Lauric acid occurs abundantly in nature, particularly in tropical plant sources:

*🌴 Coconut Oil* – Contains approximately 50% lauric acid

*🌴 Palm Kernel Oil* – Rich source with significant lauric acid content

*🌿 Laurel Oil* – Traditional source giving the acid its name

*🥛 Human Breast Milk* – Contains about 6.2% of total fat as lauric acid

*🐄 Cow’s Milk* – Approximately 2.9% lauric acid content

*🐐 Goat’s Milk* – Around 3.1% lauric acid

This natural abundance makes lauric acid both sustainable and economically viable for large-scale production.

Lauric acid for sale online

Lauric acid boasts several distinctive chemical properties that contribute to its widespread utility:

– *Molecular Weight*: 200.32 g/mol

– *Melting Point*: 43.8°C (110.8°F)

– *Boiling Point*: 297.9°C (568.2°F)

– *Appearance*: White crystalline powder or flakes

– *Odor*: Faint coconut or bay oil scent

– *Solubility*: Insoluble in water but soluble in alcohols, ether, and organic solvents

– *Stability*: Long shelf-life and resistance to oxidation

Buy Lauric acid bulk

Soap and Detergent Manufacturing

Lauric acid is a cornerstone in soap production. When reacted with sodium hydroxide, it forms *sodium laurate*, creating rich, creamy lather in soaps and detergents. Its excellent cleansing and foaming properties make it ideal for:

– Bar soaps and liquid hand soaps

– Shampoos and body washes

– Laundry detergents

– Industrial cleaning compounds

Cosmetics and Personal Care

The cosmetic industry values lauric acid for its multiple benefits:

– *Moisturizing properties* that penetrate deep into skin layers

– *Emulsifying capabilities* that help blend oil and water-based ingredients

– *Skin barrier strengthening* effects

– Common in creams, lotions, lip balms, and hair care products

Food Industry Applications

Lauric acid serves several important functions in food production:

– *Natural preservative* extending shelf life of packaged foods

– *Flavor enhancer* providing creamy texture

– *Emulsifying agent* in processed foods

– *Texture modifier* in various food products

Industrial Uses

Beyond personal care, lauric acid finds applications in:

– *Metalworking fluids* as friction reducers

– *Plastic processing* aiding mold release

– *Lubricant formulations*

– *Polymer initiators* (dilauroyl peroxide)

Lauric acid food grade

Antimicrobial Properties

Lauric acid demonstrates significant antimicrobial activity against:

– Gram-positive bacteria

– Various fungi

– Certain viruses

– Yeast infections

This has led to its use in pharmaceutical preparations and natural health remedies.

Cardiovascular Health

Research suggests lauric acid may have beneficial effects on cholesterol profiles:

– Increases HDL (“good”) cholesterol more effectively than many other fatty acids

– May improve total HDL lipoprotein ratios

– However, effects on overall cardiovascular disease risk remain under study

Metabolic Characteristics

As a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), lauric acid exhibits unique metabolic properties:

– Approximately 25-30% absorbed through the portal vein

– Different metabolic pathway compared to long-chain fatty acids

– Potential applications in specialized diets and medical nutrition

Production and Manufacturing

Extraction Process

Lauric acid is primarily obtained through:

1. *Hydrolysis* of natural oils (coconut, palm kernel)

2. *Distillation* to separate fatty acids by boiling points

3. *Purification* to achieve desired purity levels

Quality Standards

Industrial-grade lauric acid typically meets:

– Purity levels of ≥98%

– Food-grade specifications (FCC standards)

– Pharmaceutical-grade requirements when applicable

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Safety Profile

– Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food use

– Non-toxic and safe to handle

– May cause mild skin or eye irritation in concentrated forms

– Proper handling with protective equipment recommended

Environmental Impact

– Biodegradable and derived from renewable resources

– Sustainable sourcing concerns with palm oil production

– Growing emphasis on certified sustainable palm sources

Market and Economic Significance

The global lauric acid market continues to grow, driven by:

– Increasing demand for natural personal care products

– Expansion of food processing industries

– Growing awareness of antimicrobial natural products

– Versatility across multiple industrial sectors

Future Prospects and Research

Current research explores:

– Enhanced antimicrobial formulations

– Novel pharmaceutical applications

– Improved extraction and purification methods

– Sustainable production alternatives

– Advanced cosmetic formulations

Conclusion

Lauric acid stands as a testament to nature’s ingenuity – a simple fatty acid with complex and valuable applications. From its humble origins in tropical oils to its sophisticated industrial uses, this versatile compound continues to demonstrate why it remains a staple across multiple industries.

Whether you’re washing your hands with lauric acid-based soap, applying a moisturizer containing this beneficial fatty acid, or consuming foods where it serves as a natural preservative, you’re experiencing the remarkable versatility of this natural wonder. As research continues to uncover new applications and benefits, lauric acid’s importance in our daily lives seems destined to grow even further.

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Lauric Acid CAS 143-07-7