1. Technical Overview
Distilled Castor Oil Fatty Acid (DCOFA) is the high-purity fraction of fatty acids obtained from the hydrolysis and subsequent vacuum distillation of castor oil. While standard COFA contains various fatty acid chains and minor impurities from the splitting process, the “Distilled” grade is refined to isolate the ricinoleic acid content and remove heavy ends, unsaponifiables, and coloring agents. This results in a much lighter color and a more consistent reactivity profile. In industrial R&D, DCOFA is the premium choice for manufacturers of high-end, non-yellowing alkyd resins, transparent polyurethanes, and pharmaceutical-grade surfactants where color integrity and chemical precision are non-negotiable.
2. Chemical Structure & Composition
The molecular profile of DCOFA is dominated by high-purity 12-hydroxy-9-octadecenoic acid ($C_{18}H_{34}O_3$).
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Ricinoleic Acid Content: Typically 90%–94% after distillation.
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Saturated Fatty Acids: Reduced to minimum levels (<1.5%), ensuring superior low-temperature fluidity.
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Secondary Hydroxyl Group: The C12 hydroxyl remains fully intact and accessible for reaction.
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Molecular Weight: Approximately 298.46 g/mol.
The distillation process removes short-chain volatile acids and long-chain polymerized fractions, resulting in a narrow molecular weight distribution that is ideal for high-precision polymerization.
3. Physical & Chemical Properties
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Appearance: Water-white to very pale yellow viscous liquid.
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Color (Gardner): 1.0 – 2.0 Max (significantly lighter than standard COFA).
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Acid Value: 180 – 190 mg KOH/g.
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Iodine Value: 82 – 90.
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Hydroxyl Value: 155 – 165 mg KOH/g.
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Specific Gravity: 0.940 – 0.950 at 25°C.
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Refractive Index: 1.469 – 1.473 at 25°C.
4. Reaction Chemistry
Distillation enhances the predictability of chemical reactions:
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Polyesterification: Reacts with polyols to create resins with a very low initial color, allowing for the formulation of brilliant white and clear-coat finishes.
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Urethane Formation: The secondary hydroxyl groups provide controlled cross-linking with isocyanates, essential for high-clarity elastomers and adhesives.
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Transesterification: Ideal for producing high-purity methyl or ethyl ricinoleates used as specialized bio-based solvents.
5. When to Use vs. When NOT to Use
Use DCOFA when:
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Producing high-end “Water-White” alkyd resins or coatings.
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Formulating cosmetic-grade surfactants or pharmaceutical intermediates.
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Requiring a fatty acid with minimal odor and maximum chemical stability for sensitive formulations.
Do NOT use DCOFA when:
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The application is for crude industrial soaps or dark-colored textile lubricants where the extra cost of distillation provides no benefit.
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The process involves high-heat exposure in an open system where a cheaper, non-distilled grade would perform similarly.
6. Compatibility Profile
DCOFA exhibits excellent compatibility with:
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Resins: Fully compatible with acrylics, epoxies, and saturated/unsaturated polyesters.
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Solvents: Soluble in alcohols, ketones, and most aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons.
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Additives: Compatible with common UV stabilizers and hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS).
7. Manufacturing Process (Product Focus)
Nova Industries utilizes a multi-stage distillation process:
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High-Pressure Splitting: Refined castor oil is hydrolyzed into fatty acids and glycerin.
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Fractional Distillation: The crude fatty acids are fed into a high-vacuum distillation column.
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Heart Cut: Only the “heart cut” (the purest middle fraction) is collected, leaving behind the dark, pitch-like heavy ends and light-end impurities.
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Cooling and Nitrogen Blanketing: The distilled acid is immediately cooled and stored under nitrogen to prevent color degradation.
8. Technical Specifications Table
| Parameter | Specification (Distilled Grade) |
| Appearance | Pale Yellow to Colorless Clear Liquid |
| Acid Value (mg KOH/g) | 180 – 190 |
| Iodine Value (Wijs) | 82 – 92 |
| Saponification Value | 185 – 195 |
| Hydroxyl Value | 155 – 165 |
| Color (Gardner) | 2.0 Max |
| Moisture Content | 0.20% Max |
9. Quality Grade Analysis
The hallmark of DCOFA is its Color Stability. While standard COFA may darken rapidly when heated, our Distilled grade is processed to remove the pro-oxidants that cause yellowing. This ensures that when the acid is cooked at 200°C+ during resin synthesis, the resulting polymer maintains a high APHA clarity.
10. Impact of Impurities
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Unsaponifiables: Minimized to <1.0%; high levels can cause “sweating” or migration in finished coatings.
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Low-Boiling Acids: Removed during distillation to eliminate the pungent odor often associated with crude fatty acids.
11. Industry-Wise Application 1: High-Performance Coatings
DCOFA is the preferred binder component for high-solids, non-yellowing industrial enamels. It provides excellent pigment wetting, gloss retention, and flexibility to the film, making it ideal for automotive refinishes and appliance coatings.
12. Industry-Wise Application 2: Polyurethane Systems
Used as a bio-polyol in the synthesis of specialized PU elastomers and adhesives. Its high purity ensures a uniform cross-linking density, which translates to better mechanical strength and chemical resistance in the final product.
13. Industry-Wise Application 3: Cosmetics & Pharmaceuticals
Acting as a high-purity intermediate, it is used to produce esters and amides for the personal care industry. Its low odor and light color make it suitable for use in high-end lotions, shampoos, and topical ointments.
14. Industry-Wise Application 4: Printing Inks
Used in the manufacture of high-speed lithographic and offset printing inks. DCOFA improves the flow and “set” of the ink while ensuring that the colors remain vibrant and true to their pigment source.
15. Formulation Guide
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Batch Consistency: Because the hydroxyl value is concentrated during distillation, chemists should re-validate their stoichiometric ratios when switching from standard COFA to DCOFA.
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Oxidation Protection: Always use a nitrogen blanket in the reactor kettle to leverage the full “low-color” potential of the distilled grade.
16. Sustainability Data
DCOFA is 100% bio-based and renewable. It facilitates the creation of “Green” high-performance materials that match or exceed the properties of petroleum-based synthetics, supporting a circular economy.
17. Packaging & Logistics (Technical)
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Standard: 190kg HDPE or Epoxy-lined MS Drums.
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Bulk: 1000kg IBC Tanks or ISO Tanks with nitrogen padding.
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Stability: Highly stable when kept under nitrogen; however, exposure to air will cause gradual yellowing.
18. Storage Science
Must be stored in a cool, dry area. For bulk storage, 316L stainless steel tanks are mandatory. Even 304-grade steel can lead to trace iron pickup over time, which will darken this sensitive, high-purity acid. Use desiccant breathers to prevent moisture ingress.
19. Troubleshooting Guide
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Problem: Final resin is darker than expected. Solution: Check the temperature of the DCOFA during storage or check for air leaks in the reactor.
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Problem: Haze in clear coatings. Solution: Verify the moisture content; distilled grades are very dry, but can absorb moisture quickly if left open.
20. Regulatory Compliance
Our DCOFA is REACH Compliant, meets the requirements for use in food-contact materials (subject to local limits), and is produced under ISO-aware quality management systems.
21. Safety (SDS Summary)
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Handling: Wear protective eyewear and gloves. Non-hazardous, but a mild irritant.
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Fire: High flash point (>200°C). Use dry chemical or foam.
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Spillage: Use absorbent earth. DCOFA is biodegradable but should not be allowed to enter the sewage system in bulk.
22. Sample Validation Process
Verify the Color (Gardner) and Hydroxyl Value. A “Heat Stability Test” (heating to 205°C for 2 hours under nitrogen) is the best way to confirm the distillation quality for resin manufacturers.
23. Commercial Efficiency
Using Nova Industries’ DCOFA allows manufacturers to eliminate the need for corrective bleaching agents in their formulations. The high purity leads to more predictable reaction times and a superior final product that commands a premium in the market.
24. Technical FAQs
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What is the difference between COFA and DCOFA? DCOFA has undergone vacuum distillation to remove impurities and color, whereas COFA is the crude acid mixture.
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Is it better for non-yellowing than DCO? Yes, because as a fatty acid, it allows for more precise resin architecture than the triglyceride oil.
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What is the shelf life? 12 months in a sealed, nitrogen-blanketed container.
25. Contact CTA
For detailed TDS, APHA color specifications, or to request a sample of our Distilled Grade, please contact our technical team at: export@novaind.in
