Lauric Acid 99% Min (Malaysia Origin)

Brief Overview

Lauric acid, or dodecanoic acid, is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It presents as a white solid with a subtle aroma reminiscent of bay oil. While it doesn't dissolve in water, it can be soluble in organic solvents. Lauric acid finds application as vegetable shortening in the food industry and is also utilized in personal care products such as soap and shampoo.

Manufacturing Process

Lauric acid occurs naturally as glyceride in pepper kernel oil, palm kernel oil, litsea cubeba kernel oil, and coconut oil. In the industry, natural oils and fats are hydrolyzed to create lauric acid. At 250°C and 5 MPa of pressure, the mixture hydrolyzes to create glycerol and fatty acid when the catalyst, water, and coconut oil are added to the autoclave. A second distillation of the material yields dodecanoic acid, which has a concentration of 45% to 80%.

Cosmetic Industry

Lauric acid is used in skincare and cosmetic products due to its antimicrobial and anti-acne properties. Monolaurin is a surfactant used in deodorant and other cosmetic goods. It is made from lauric acid.

Soap and Detergent Industry

Through a process called saponification, lauric acid can undergo a reaction with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or potassium hydroxide (KOH). The reaction with NaOH results in a product suitable for solid soap production, while the reaction with KOH produces a product used in liquid soap manufacturing. In addition to these soap-related applications, lauric acid is known for its moisturizing properties and serves as a cost-effective alternative to other fatty acids, excelling as a foaming agent.

Other Applications

An alternate energy source such as sustainable biodiesel is produced when methanol and lauric acid react with potassium hydroxide, which acts as a catalyst. Lauric acid may have therapeutic use in addition to being used as a lubricant in the manufacture of plastics.