Lauric Acid 99%

Brief Overview

In coconut oil and palm kernel oil, lauric acid—also referred to as dodecanoic acid—is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid. It has a white solid appearance with a little bay oil smell. While it may be dissolved in organic solvents, it is not soluble in water. Lauric acid finds usage in personal care products such as shampoo and soap, as well as in the food sector as vegetable shortening.

Manufacturing Process

Coconut oil, litsea cubeba kernel oil, palm kernel oil, and pepper kernel oil all naturally contain lauric acid in the form of glyceride. In the industry, lauric acid is produced by the hydrolysis of natural oils and fats. After adding the coconut oil, water, and catalyst to the autoclave, the mixture hydrolyzes to produce glycerol and fatty acid at 250°C and 5 MPa of pressure. One can obtain dodecanoic acid by further distilling the substance, which ranges from 45% to 80%.

Cosmetic Industry

Because lauric acid has anti-microbial and anti-acne qualities, it is utilized in skincare and cosmetic products. Monolaurin, which is produced from lauric acid, is a surfactant that is utilized in deodorant and other cosmetic products.

Soap and Detergent Industry

The process of lauric acid reacting with potassium hydroxide or natrium hydroxide is called saponification. Lauric acid reacts with NaOH to produce a product used to make solid soap, whereas it reacts with KOH to produce a product used to make liquid soap. Additionally, lauric acid has moisturizing qualities. Lauric acid is a great foaming agent and is less expensive than other fatty acid compounds.

Other Applications

Lauric acid and methanol combine with potassium hydroxide acting as a catalyst to create sustainable biodiesel, an alternative energy source. Lauric acid is used as a lubricant in the production of plastics and may potentially have medicinal uses.