IUPAC Name
Dodecanoic Acid
Cas Number
143-07-7
HS Code
2915.90.90
Formula
C12H24O2
Appearance
White Powder Solid
Common Names
Vulvic Acid; Laurostearic Acid
Packaging
25 Kg bag with PP Lamination, 180 Kg in Plastic HDPE Drums
Brief Overview
Lauric acid, or dodecanoic acid, is found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil as a saturated medium-chain fatty acid. It presents as a white solid with a subtle bay oil-like scent. While it dissolves in organic solvents, water solubility is not observed. Lauric acid serves as a vegetable shortening in the culinary industry and is utilized in personal care items such as shampoo and detergent.
Manufacturing Process
Naturally occurring in coconut oil, litsea cubeba kernel oil, palm kernel oil, and pepper kernel oil as glyceride, lauric acid is industrially synthesized through the hydrolysis of natural oils and fats. The process involves introducing coconut oil, water, and a catalyst into the autoclave, resulting in hydrolysis at 250°C and 5 MPa pressure, yielding glycerol and fatty acid. Dodecanoic acid, comprising 45% to 80% of the content, can be isolated through subsequent distillation.
Cosmetic Industry
Lauric acid's remarkable antibacterial and anti-acne properties make it a widely sought-after ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products. There are several applications for lauric acid in cosmetic care; one of them is the production of deodorants, which requires the derived surfactant monolaurin.
Soap and Detergent Industry
The chemical transformation of lauric acid with either potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide is known as saponification. When reacting with NaOH, lauric acid yields a product suitable for solid soap manufacturing, while its reaction with KOH results in a product ideal for liquid soap production. Lauric acid is recognized for its moisturizing properties, serving as a cost-effective and efficient foaming agent compared to other fatty acid compounds.
Other Applications
The synthesis of sustainable biodiesel, an alternative energy source, involves the reaction between lauric acid and methanol, facilitated by potassium hydroxide as a catalyst. Lauric acid serves as a lubricant in the plastic manufacturing process and holds potential for medicinal applications.
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