Sodium Stearate Chemical Formula

(Sodium Stearate Chemical Formula)

Sodium stearate is an anionic fatty acid salt. It is an important ingredient in soaps and other cosmetic products. It is commonly derived from vegetable oils such as coconut oil and palm oil and animal fats like tallow.

It is an emulsifier, dispersant and thickener used to create solid “stick-like” soaps. It is also used as a lubricant, water repellent and plastic stabilizer.

The chemical formula of this compound is C18H33NaO2 and it appears as a light tan solid with a tallow-like odor. It is soluble in hot water and ethanol and acid decomposition produces stearic acid and the corresponding sodium salt.

This fatty acid has a double bond at the middle of its long carbon chain, making it cis-trans and hydrophilic. It can mix with water slowly to form a slightly alkaline solution upon dissolution.

Unlike other fatty acids, stearic acid can be used as a natural waterproofing agent in the production of soaps and a number of other products. It is one of the least allergenic fatty acid salts and does not cause irritation to the skin.

Sodium stearate is a product of saponification, the process whereby certain fatty acids are dissolved in sodium hydroxide to produce soap. The main raw materials are oils and sodium hydroxide, a weakly alkaline liquid that is used as a catalyst in the saponification reaction.

(Sodium Stearate Chemical Formula)