Stearyl Alcohol, particularly the C18 variant with CAS 112-92-5, along with Cetostearyl Alcohol, a blend of Cetyl (C16) and Stearyl (C18) alcohols often associated with CAS 67762-27-0, represent foundational raw materials across numerous industrial sectors. These long-chain fatty alcohols are characterized by their solid, waxy or granular appearance at room temperature, possessing a faint, characteristic odor. They are practically insoluble in water but exhibit solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform, as well as mineral oil. This solubility profile, combined with their physical properties, makes them indispensable ingredients in formulating a wide array of products.

One of the primary functions of Stearyl Alcohol and Cetostearyl Alcohol is their role as emulsifiers and thickeners. In many formulations, particularly emulsions, they help to stabilize the mixture of oil and water phases, preventing separation. This emulsifying property is crucial for creating stable creams, lotions, and other personal care products. Beyond stabilization, these alcohols contribute significantly to the texture and viscosity of formulations. They impart a desirable consistency, ranging from light lotions to rich creams, influencing the spreadability and feel of the final product on the skin. Furthermore, they can help to reduce the greasy sensation often associated with other wax raw materials, enhancing the overall user experience.

The applications of Stearyl Alcohol and Cetostearyl Alcohol extend far beyond the cosmetic realm. In the textile industry, they serve multiple purposes. They are utilized as levelling agents, diffusants, and stripping agents in printing and dyeing processes. Adding these alcohols, typically at low concentrations, can significantly enhance colorfastness, improve color brilliance and equality, and aid in the removal of impurities scattered on the textile during dyeing. They also improve the detergency of synthetic detergents and help reduce electrostatic effects on fabrics, contributing to better processing and end-product quality.

Another significant industrial application is in metal processing. Stearyl Alcohol and Cetostearyl Alcohol are employed as abstergents to effectively remove grease stains from metal surfaces. This cleaning action is vital for preparing metal parts for subsequent treatments like plating or painting, ensuring proper adhesion and finish. They also function as solubilizers or brighteners in certain metal treatment baths, further enhancing the quality of the processed metal.

The fiberglass industry also benefits from these versatile fatty alcohols. Used as O/W (oil-in-water) emulsifiers, they help in the production of fiberglass by reducing breakage during processing and preventing flocking, which is the accumulation of fibers. This improves the efficiency of fiberglass manufacturing and the quality of the resulting product.

More broadly, in general industry, Stearyl Alcohol and Cetostearyl Alcohol are recognized as excellent O/W emulsifiers for various types of oils, including vegetable oil, animal oil, stearic acid, paraffin wax, and mineral oil. They can disperse these substances to form very stable latexes, which are essential components in many industrial processes and products. They are also key components in filature preparation agents for synthetic fibers like terylene and serve as emulgators in the polymerization of macromolecular substances.

In the agricultural sector, these fatty alcohols find use as seed soaking penetrants. Their ability to enhance the penetrating power of pesticides and improve seed germination rates makes them valuable additions to agricultural formulations, contributing to more effective crop management and yield.

The chemical stability of Stearyl Alcohol is notable; while it can be sulfonated with concentrated sulfuric acid, it generally shows no significant chemical reactions in the presence of strong alkalis, adding to its robustness in various formulations. The melting point of Stearyl Alcohol (C18) is typically around 48-50°C, with a boiling point of 344°C, while Cetostearyl Alcohol's properties fall within a similar range, depending on the precise C16:C18 ratio. Proper storage in cool and dry places is essential to maintain their quality and extend their shelf life, which is often specified around 24 months under optimal conditions. They are commonly transported in packaging such as 25kg kraft bags, ensuring ease of handling and storage.

For industries requiring reliable supply of high-quality Stearyl Alcohol and Cetostearyl Alcohol, finding a reputable manufacturer and supplier is paramount. The price of these materials can vary depending on purity, quantity, and market conditions. When looking to buy or purchase these fatty alcohols, it is advisable to inquire about typical specifications, packaging options, minimum order quantities (MOQ), and lead times to ensure the product meets the required standards and logistical needs. Suppliers often provide samples for evaluation before committing to larger orders. Ningbo Inno Pharmchem Co.,Ltd. is a company focusing on providing chemical raw materials like these fatty alcohols for diverse applications.