Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid (DCOFA) is a modified fatty acid obtained from dehydrated castor oil derived from Ricinus communis. The dehydration step creates conjugated unsaturation, giving DCOFA enhanced reactivity and film-forming behavior. Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid is increasingly recognized for its versatile applications. Industrially, DCOFA is used as a reactive intermediate in coating, ink, resin, and adhesive systems where controlled drying, hardness development, and compatibility are important.
Product Overview
DCOFA originates from castor oil via dehydration followed by fatty acid splitting and purification. The resulting fatty acid exhibits drying characteristics distinct from native castor oil fatty acids.
The unique properties of Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid make it a preferred choice in various formulation processes.
Common industrial forms and grades:
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Liquid DCO fatty acid
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Grades aligned to coating and resin applications (specification dependent)
At a high level, DCOFA differs from standard castor oil fatty acids by offering higher drying potential and reactivity, making it suitable for surface-coating and polymer systems rather than lubrication-focused uses.
Using Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid allows manufacturers to achieve superior drying times and improved film properties.
Manufacturing Process (High Level)
The production of Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid follows a controlled, non-proprietary pathway.
1. Raw Material Sourcing
Refined castor oil from castor seeds is used as the primary feedstock.
2. Dehydration
Castor oil is dehydrated to introduce conjugated double bonds responsible for drying behavior.
3. Fatty Acid Splitting
The dehydrated oil is split to obtain free fatty acids.
4. Purification & Finishing
Refining and filtration remove impurities and stabilize the product.
5. Quality Control Stages
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Incoming raw material inspection
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In-process monitoring
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Final batch testing prior to dispatch
Specific temperatures, catalysts, or proprietary conditions are not disclosed.
Key Properties & Technical Characteristics
Understanding the characteristics of Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid is crucial for optimizing its performance in applications.
The performance of DCOFA in formulations depends on its chemical structure and stability. Each property affects application behavior.
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Appearance & Physical State – Clear to amber liquid; clarity reflects effective purification.
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Odour – Mild characteristic odour; relevant for coatings and inks.
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Viscosity – Influences flow, application, and film thickness.
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Specific Gravity – Indicates batch-to-batch compositional consistency.
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Acid Value – Confirms free fatty acid content and purity.
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Iodine Value – Elevated due to conjugated unsaturation; linked to drying performance.
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Saponification Value – Used to assess fatty acid composition.
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Moisture Content – Low moisture supports storage stability.
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Unsaponifiable Matter – Controlled to maintain formulation consistency.
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Drying / Oxidative Reactivity – Enables film formation and hardness development.
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Typical Impurities Monitored – Residual gums, particulates, trace contaminants.
Typical Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Indication |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear to amber liquid |
| Key Chemical Values | Typical range — confirm with Certificate of Analysis (COA) |
| Drying Characteristics | Application-dependent |
Exact numerical values depend on grade and must be confirmed with the COA.
Applications & End-Use Industries
Pharmaceuticals
Use case: Limited, formulation-specific intermediate.
Why it works: Chemical stability when properly refined.
Examples: Specialty excipient systems (application dependent).
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Use case: Restricted, formulation-dependent use.
Why it works: Film-forming behavior in niche applications.
Examples: Specialized cosmetic formulations.
Lubricants & Greases
Use case: Modifier in specialty systems.
Why it works: Reactive structure and compatibility with additives.
Examples: Industrial lubricant blends.
Polymers & Resins
Use case: Reactive fatty acid component.
Why it works: Conjugated unsaturation supports polymerization.
Examples: Alkyd resins, modified resin systems.
In the field of resins, Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid serves as a critical component enhancing the overall formulation.
Paints, Coatings & Adhesives
Use case: Drying and film-forming fatty acid.
Why it works: Improves drying speed and film hardness.
Examples: Industrial paints, varnishes, printing inks, adhesives.
Utilizing Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid in paints leads to noticeable improvements in drying speed and final product hardness.
Specialty & Other Industrial Uses
Use case: Intermediate for further chemical modification.
Why it works: Predictable chemical reactivity.
Examples: Modified oils and specialty coatings.
Quality control for Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid must include comprehensive testing to ensure optimal performance.
Quality Standards & Compliance Practices
DCOFA 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
The importance of Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid in various industries continues to grow, reflecting its adaptability.
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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 formats:
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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 Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid from India
For many manufacturers, sourcing Dehydrated Castor Oil Fatty Acid from India ensures consistent quality and supply.
India is a major origin for castor oil and its derivatives. Gujarat serves as a key processing and export hub due to integrated agricultural sourcing, established chemical infrastructure, and strong port connectivity, supporting traceable and consistent global supply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is DCO fatty acid mainly used for?
Primarily in coatings, inks, and resin systems.
2. How does it differ from regular castor fatty acids?
It has conjugated unsaturation that enables drying and film formation.
3. Is it water-soluble?
No, it is insoluble in water.
4. How should it be stored?
In sealed containers, away from heat and moisture.
5. What affects shelf life?
Storage conditions and exposure to air.
6. Are batches tested before dispatch?
Yes, routine QC checks are performed.
7. Are different grades available?
Grades may vary depending on application needs.
8. Is export documentation provided?
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.
