12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA) – Flakes is a solid fatty acid derived from hydrogenated castor oil and valued industrially for its hydroxyl functionality, high melting behavior, and strong structuring ability.
It is widely used as a thickening, gelling, and performance-enhancing component in formulations where thermal stability, mechanical strength, and controlled rheology are required across global industrial applications.
Product Overview
12-HSA originates from castor oil obtained from Ricinus communis seeds. Through controlled conversion, it is supplied as solid flakes that are easy to handle, dose, and blend in industrial processes.
Common industrial forms:
-
Flakes
-
Granules / pastilles (depending on processing and handling requirements)
At a high level, 12-HSA is produced from hydrogenated castor oil via selective splitting and purification. Compared with other fatty acids, it offers superior thickening efficiency and structural reinforcement due to the presence of the hydroxyl group on the fatty acid chain.
Manufacturing Process (High Level)
The production of 12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid follows a standardized, high-level industrial pathway.
1. Raw Material Sourcing
Hydrogenated castor oil derived from castor seeds serves as the primary feedstock.
2. Chemical Conversion
The hydrogenated oil undergoes controlled splitting to obtain 12-hydroxy stearic acid.
3. Purification & Refining
Multiple refining steps remove residual impurities and ensure uniformity.
4. Solidification & Flaking
The purified product is solidified and converted into flakes for industrial handling.
5. Quality Control Stages
-
Incoming raw material inspection
-
In-process monitoring
-
Final batch testing before packaging
No proprietary reaction conditions or confidential processing details are disclosed.
Key Properties & Technical Characteristics
The performance of 12-HSA in formulations depends on its physical solidity and chemical consistency. Each property influences end-use behavior.
-
Appearance & Physical State – White to off-white solid flakes; uniformity indicates consistent processing.
-
Odour – Neutral to faint characteristic odour; important for sensitive formulations.
-
Melting Point – Relatively high; contributes to heat resistance and structural stability.
-
Acid Value – Reflects purity and free fatty acid content.
-
Hydroxyl Value – Indicates reactive hydroxyl functionality critical for thickening and polymer interactions.
-
Iodine Value – Very low; confirms saturation and oxidative stability.
-
Moisture Content – Low moisture supports storage stability and processing reliability.
-
Unsaponifiable Matter – Controlled to maintain formulation consistency.
-
Oxidation Stability – Supports long shelf life under recommended storage conditions.
-
Typical Impurities Monitored – Residual oils, particulates, and trace contaminants.
Typical Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Indication |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white flakes |
| Melting Characteristics | Typical range — confirm with Certificate of Analysis (COA) |
| Key Chemical Values | Typical range — confirm with COA |
Exact numerical values vary by grade and must be confirmed with the COA.
Applications & End-Use Industries
Pharmaceuticals
Use case: Structuring and controlled-release component.
Why it works: Chemical inertness and predictable melting behavior.
Examples: Ointment bases, topical systems, excipient matrices.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Use case: Thickener and texture stabilizer.
Why it works: Strong gelling efficiency and consistency control.
Examples: Creams, lotions, lipsticks, deodorant sticks.
Lubricants & Greases
Use case: Grease thickener.
Why it works: Forms stable soap structures with lubricating oils.
Examples: Industrial greases, specialty lubricants.
Polymers & Resins
Use case: Functional additive and intermediate.
Why it works: Hydroxyl functionality enables interaction with polymer systems.
Examples: Polyurethane formulations, specialty resins.
Paints, Coatings & Adhesives
Use case: Rheology modifier.
Why it works: Improves body, structure, and heat resistance.
Examples: Industrial coatings, adhesive systems.
Specialty & Other Industrial Uses
Use case: Intermediate for downstream specialty chemicals.
Why it works: Stable and well-defined chemical structure.
Examples: Specialty esters and performance additives.
Quality Standards & Compliance Practices
12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid is supplied based on testing discipline and batch verification, not unverified certification claims.
Common practices include:
-
Acid value testing
-
Moisture analysis
-
Appearance and odour checks
-
Batch traceability systems
-
Availability of COA, TDS, and MSDS
-
Quality management aligned with generic ISO-style frameworks
Packaging, Storage & Export Handling
Common packaging options:
-
HDPE bags with inner liner
-
Fiber drums
-
Bulk packaging (application dependent)
Storage guidelines:
-
Store in a cool, dry, and sealed environment
-
Protect from moisture and contamination
-
Shelf life depends on storage conditions
Export documentation typically includes:
-
Commercial Invoice
-
Packing List
-
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
-
MSDS
-
Bill of Lading
HS Code: Provided on request
MOQ & Lead Time: Subject to grade, packaging, and incoterms; confirm at enquiry
Why Buyers Source 12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid from India
India is a primary origin for castor oil and castor-based derivatives. Gujarat acts as a major processing and export hub due to integrated agricultural sourcing, established chemical processing infrastructure, and strong port connectivity, supporting traceable and consistent global supply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is 12-HSA mainly used for?
As a thickener, gelling agent, and functional intermediate.
2. Is 12-HSA water-soluble?
No, it is insoluble in water.
3. What form is commonly supplied?
Solid flakes are the standard industrial form.
4. How should it be stored?
In sealed packaging, away from heat and moisture.
5. What affects shelf life?
Storage conditions and handling practices.
6. Are batches tested before dispatch?
Yes, routine QC checks are performed.
7. Can different grades be supplied?
Grades may vary based on application requirements.
8. Is documentation supplied with exports?
COA, MSDS, and standard export documents are available.
Technical Enquiries
For technical datasheets, samples, or commercial enquiries, buyers may contact Nova Industries at export@novaind.in.
