A fatty acid used as an emulsifier, lubricant, and dispersing agent in coatings and pigment preparations.

Properties:

• Monounsaturated: It is an unsaturated fatty acid with one double bond, which gives it its liquid state at room temperature.
• Emollient & Moisturizing: It softens the skin and helps retain moisture, acting as a natural emollient.
• Antioxidant: It helps protect against damage from free radicals.
• Good Absorption: The human body absorbs and metabolizes it efficiently.
• Insoluble in Water: It is not soluble in water but dissolves in organic solvents.
• Smooth Texture: It provides a smooth texture in cosmetic formulations.
• Carrier: It is an excellent carrier for other nutrients and active ingredients in food and cosmetic products.

Applications:

• Food Industry: Found in cooking oils and spreads, it improves oxidation stability and prolongs shelf life.
• Cosmetics: Used in lotions, creams, and hair products for its moisturizing, softening, and emollient qualities.
• Pharmaceuticals: Serves as a solvent for drugs, enhances absorption of topical and lipophilic drugs, and aids in creating soft pills.

Industrial:

• Lubricants: Used in biodegradable lubricants and as a textile auxiliary to soften fibers.
• Chemicals: Acts as an emulsifier, component in cutting fluids, defoamer, and corrosion inhibitor.
• Materials: A precursor for biodegradable plastics and a component in biofuel production.