- info@chemicalssuppliers.com
- 512-668-9918
A Guide to Palmitic Acid: Properties, Industrial Applications, and Global Supply Chains
Palmitic Acid (systematic name: Hexadecanoic Acid). As the most common saturated fatty acid found in animals, plants, and microorganisms, this versatile molecule is the backbone of industries ranging from cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to food production and biofuels.
At ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we recognize that for procurement managers, formulators, and research scientists, sourcing high-purity chemicals is not just about price—it is about consistency, technical documentation, and reliable global logistics. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about Palmitic Acid and provides a roadmap for sourcing industrial chemicals globally.
Palmitic acid, having the chemical formula $CH_3(CH_2)_{14}COOH$, is a long-chain saturated fatty acid. In its pure form, it appears as a white, crystalline solid or waxy flakes. It is naturally occurring in palm oil, butter, cheese, milk, and meat, and it is a major component of the human body’s fatty acid profile.
To ensure you are sourcing the correct grade, it is helpful to understand the various ways this compound is referred to in technical data sheets:
The utility of Palmitic Acid extends far beyond its biological role. Its amphiphilic nature (having both hydrophilic and hydrophobic parts) makes it an exceptional structural component in chemical synthesis.
Palmitic acid serves as an opacifier, surfactant, and emulsifying agent. It is a fundamental ingredient in:
In drug delivery, Palmitic acid is used to produce esters that improve the lipophilicity of drugs, allowing them to penetrate cell membranes more effectively. It is often used in the formulation of injectable medicines to achieve controlled release.
As a food additive (E161), it is used as a texturizing agent and as a precursor for the production of food emulsifiers like mono- and diglycerides.
Due to its chain length and saturated nature, it is a precursor for synthetic lubricants and is currently being researched extensively as a component in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and biodiesel production.
When sourcing Palmitic Acid from ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we emphasize the importance of key quality metrics:
At ChemicalsSuppliers.com, we maintain a vast inventory of fatty acids, esters, and specialty chemicals. Below is a list of 50 related chemicals frequently sourced alongside Palmitic Acid.
Note: Prices fluctuate based on market demand, crude oil prices, and logistics. For exact current pricing, please visit our official quote page.
| No | Chemical Name | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stearic Acid | Hardening agent |
| 2 | Oleic Acid | Emulsifier |
| 3 | Myristic Acid | Surfactant |
| 4 | Lauric Acid | Antimicrobial agent |
| 5 | Caprylic Acid | Nutritional supplement |
| 6 | Glycerin (Glycerol) | Humectant |
| 7 | Cetyl Alcohol | Emollient |
| 8 | Stearyl Alcohol | Thickener |
| 9 | Isopropyl Palmitate | Skin conditioning |
| 10 | Isopropyl Myristate | Solvent / carrier |
| 11 | Polysorbate 80 | Emulsifier |
| 12 | Sorbitan Monostearate | Food emulsifier |
| 13 | Sodium Lauryl Sulfate | Detergent |
| 14 | Linoleic Acid | Essential fatty acid |
| 15 | Capric Acid | Flavouring |
| 16 | Arachidic Acid | Lubricant |
| 17 | Behenic Acid | Hair conditioning |
| 18 | Palmitoyl Chloride | Chemical synthesis |
| 19 | Methyl Palmitate | Biodiesel component |
| 20 | Ethyl Palmitate | Flavor/Fragrance |
| 21 | Propylene Glycol | Solvent |
| 22 | Triethanolamine | pH adjuster |
| 23 | Citric Acid | Acidulant |
| 24 | Ascorbic Acid | Antioxidant |
| 25 | Benzyl Alcohol | Preservative |
| 26 | Phenoxyethanol | Preservative |
| 27 | Tocopherol (Vitamin E) | Antioxidant |
| 28 | PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil | Solubilizer |
| 29 | Mineral Oil | Emollient |
| 30 | Petrolatum | Occlusive agent |
| 31 | Beeswax | Thickener |
| 32 | Lanolin | Moisturizer |
| 33 | Shea Butter | Emollient |
| 34 | Cocoa Butter | Emollient |
| 35 | Coconut Oil (Refined) | Base oil |
| 36 | Palm Kernel Oil | Raw material |
| 37 | Castor Oil | Lubricant |
| 38 | Tall Oil Fatty Acids | Resin production |
| 39 | Sunflower Fatty Acid | Coatings |
| 40 | Dimer Acid | Polymer industry |
| 41 | Maleic Anhydride | Plasticizer |
| 42 | Adipic Acid | Nylon production |
| 43 | Sebacic Acid | Polymer additive |
| 44 | Azelaic Acid | Acne treatment |
| 45 | Glyceryl Stearate | Emulsifier |
| 46 | Cetearyl Alcohol | Texture enhancer |
| 47 | Myristyl Myristate | Opacifier |
| 48 | Dicaprylyl Carbonate | Emollient |
| 49 | Caprylyl Glycol | Preservative |
| 50 | Ethylhexylglycerin | Deodorant agent |
To purchase these chemicals, visit our secure shopping portal at ChemicalsSuppliers.com. We offer bulk discount rates for industrial orders and consolidated shipping options for international delivery.
The market for fatty acids is heavily influenced by the palm oil industry in Southeast Asia (Indonesia and Malaysia). As a global supplier, ChemicalsSuppliers.com integrates supply chain transparency, ensuring that our Palmitic Acid and related derivatives are sourced sustainably.
Palmitic Acid is generally classified as a non-hazardous substance; however, proper industrial hygiene is required. Always consult the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS) before handling. Wear protective gloves and eyewear, and store in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping and oxidative degradation.
In a volatile chemical market, longevity and trust are key. ChemicalsSuppliers.com provides:
Visit us today at https://www.chemicalssuppliers.com/ to explore our catalog or to speak with a chemical procurement specialist regarding your specific formulation needs.
To support our international clients, here are the terms used globally for Palmitic Acid:
This article is for informational purposes. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, please verify all chemical specifications with the provided documentation upon purchase at ChemicalsSuppliers.com.
