Ricinoleic Acid is a hydroxylated fatty acid derived from castor oil obtained from Ricinus communis seeds. It is distinguished by the presence of a hydroxyl group and a double bond within the fatty acid chain, which imparts high reactivity, polarity, and functional versatility.
Industrially, ricinoleic acid is used as a chemical intermediate and performance component in applications requiring controlled reactivity, compatibility, and derivatization potential.
Product Overview
Ricinoleic acid originates exclusively from castor oil, where it constitutes the major fatty acid component. Through controlled hydrolysis and separation, it is isolated and supplied for industrial use.
Common industrial forms and grades:
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Liquid grade ricinoleic acid
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Grades tailored for downstream chemical synthesis (application dependent)
At a high level, ricinoleic acid is produced by splitting refined castor oil into fatty acids and glycerol, followed by purification. Compared with other fatty acids, ricinoleic acid offers unique chemical functionality due to its hydroxyl group, making it a preferred feedstock for specialty chemicals and derivatives.
Manufacturing Process (High Level)
The industrial production of ricinoleic acid follows a structured, high-level pathway.
1. Raw Material Sourcing
Refined castor oil derived from castor seeds serves as the primary feedstock.
2. Oil Splitting / Hydrolysis
The triglycerides are split to release free fatty acids, including ricinoleic acid.
3. Separation & Purification
Ricinoleic acid is separated and refined to achieve the desired purity and consistency.
4. Finishing & Packaging
Final filtration and conditioning prepare the product for storage or further chemical processing.
5. Quality Control Stages
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Incoming raw material checks
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In-process monitoring
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Final batch testing before dispatch
No proprietary conditions, catalysts, or confidential processing parameters are disclosed.
Key Properties & Technical Characteristics
Ricinoleic acid’s performance in formulations depends on its chemical structure and purity. Each parameter influences downstream processing and application behavior.
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Appearance & Physical State – Clear to pale yellow liquid; clarity indicates effective purification.
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Odour – Mild characteristic odour; relevant for sensitive industrial applications.
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Viscosity – Affects handling, pumping, and reaction kinetics.
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Specific Gravity – Indicates batch-to-batch consistency.
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Acid Value – Confirms free fatty acid content and purity.
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Hydroxyl Value – Represents reactive hydroxyl functionality critical for chemical synthesis.
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Iodine Value – Reflects degree of unsaturation and reactivity.
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Moisture Content – Low moisture supports stability and controlled reactions.
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Unsaponifiable Matter – Monitored to maintain purity.
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Oxidation Stability – Important for storage and transport.
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Typical Impurities Monitored – Residual glycerides, particulates, trace contaminants.
Typical Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Indication |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow liquid |
| Key Chemical Values | Typical range — confirm with Certificate of Analysis (COA) |
| Purity Indicators | Batch-specific, COA verified |
Exact numerical values vary by grade and must be confirmed with the COA.
Applications & End-Use Industries
Pharmaceuticals
Use case: Intermediate and functional excipient component.
Why it works: Chemical compatibility and controlled reactivity.
Examples: Drug delivery intermediates, topical formulation bases.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Use case: Emollient and dispersing agent.
Why it works: High polarity and hydroxyl functionality.
Examples: Creams, lotions, soaps, specialty personal care formulations.
Lubricants & Greases
Use case: Base component or additive precursor.
Why it works: Natural lubricity and chemical stability.
Examples: Industrial lubricants, specialty grease formulations.
Polymers & Resins
Use case: Reactive chemical intermediate.
Why it works: Hydroxyl group enables polymer modification and synthesis.
Examples: Polyamides, polyurethanes, specialty resins.
Paints, Coatings & Adhesives
Use case: Modifier and intermediate.
Why it works: Improves flexibility and compatibility within resin systems.
Examples: Industrial coatings, adhesive formulations.
Specialty & Other Industrial Uses
Use case: Feedstock for downstream castor derivatives.
Why it works: Predictable chemical structure and reactivity.
Examples: Esters, surfactants, performance additives.
Quality Standards & Compliance Practices
Ricinoleic acid is supplied based on testing discipline and batch verification, not unverifiable certification claims.
Common practices include:
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Acid value testing
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Moisture analysis
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Appearance and odour checks
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Batch traceability records
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Availability of COA, TDS, and MSDS
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Quality systems aligned with generic ISO-style frameworks
Packaging, Storage & Export Handling
Common packaging options:
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HDPE drums
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IBC containers
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Bulk supply (application dependent)
Storage guidelines:
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Store in a cool, dry, sealed environment
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Protect from heat, air exposure, and moisture
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Shelf life depends on storage conditions
Export documentation typically includes:
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Commercial Invoice
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Packing List
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Certificate of Analysis (COA)
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MSDS
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Bill of Lading
HS Code: Provided on request
MOQ & Lead Time: Subject to grade, packaging, and incoterms; confirm at enquiry
Why Buyers Source Ricinoleic Acid from India
India is the primary global origin for castor oil and ricinoleic acid due to established castor cultivation, integrated processing infrastructure, and export-oriented supply chains. Gujarat serves as a key manufacturing and logistics hub, supporting traceable and consistent global supply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is ricinoleic acid mainly used for?
As an intermediate for chemicals, lubricants, polymers, and specialty formulations.
2. Is ricinoleic acid water-soluble?
No, it is insoluble in water.
3. How should ricinoleic acid be stored?
In sealed containers, away from heat and moisture.
4. What affects shelf life?
Storage conditions and exposure to air.
5. Are batches tested before dispatch?
Yes, routine QC checks are performed.
6. Can different grades be supplied?
Grades may vary based on application requirements.
7. Is export documentation provided?
COA, MSDS, and standard export documents are available.
8. Can it be used to manufacture other derivatives?
Yes, it is a key feedstock for multiple castor-based derivatives.
Technical Enquiries
For technical datasheets, samples, or commercial enquiries, buyers may contact Nova Industries at export@novaind.in.
