[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of oleic acid, what is oleic acid used

Oleic acid properties

Oleic acid (Oleic Acid) is an important unsaturated fatty acid, chemical formula for C18H34O2, the structure contains a double bond (located in the 9th position), which makes it have a certain unsaturated characteristics. Oleic acid is usually a pale yellow to brownish yellow liquid at room temperature with a faint oily odor. Its molecular weight is about 282.46g/mol, its melting point is between 13-14°C, and its boiling point is 360°C. Due to the position of its double bond, oleic acid has a cis (cis) configuration, making its molecule spatially curved. This structure gives oleic acid unique physicochemical properties, such as high solubility and good lubricity.

Oleic Acid Uses

Oleic acid is widely used in many industrial fields, including cosmetics, food and chemical industries. In cosmetics, oleic acid is used as an emulsifier and moisturizer, and is often used in products such as skin creams, lotions and shampoos because it helps the skin retain moisture and provides a lubricious feel. In the food industry, oleic acid is an important dietary fatty acid, which is found in vegetable oils such as olive oil and rapeseed oil, and has the effect of regulating cholesterol levels and protecting cardiovascular health. In the chemical industry, oleic acid is an important raw material for the production of surfactants, lubricants, plasticizers and detergents, and its chemical reactivity makes it play a key role in the synthesis of these products.

Upstream raw materials

The production of oleic acid is mainly dependent on vegetable oils, especially those rich in oleic acid such as olive oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil and cottonseed oil. These vegetable oils are extracted from crude oil by pressing or solvent extraction, followed by refining, degumming, deacidification, decolorization and deodorization to obtain high-purity oleic acid. Oleic acid can also be obtained by hydrolysis of animal fats, but this method is less used in modern industry. The production and supply of vegetable oil directly affects the yield and price of oleic acid. Therefore, the stable supply of upstream raw materials has an important impact on the market of oleic acid.

Downstream Products

As a key intermediate, oleic acid is widely used in the production of various downstream products. Oleic acid can be used as a lubricant and plasticizer, and is widely used in the plastics and rubber industries to improve product flexibility and durability. Oleic acid is an important raw material for the preparation of surfactants, which play a key role in products such as detergents, emulsifiers and dispersants. Derivatives of oleic acid, such as oleic acid esters, are also widely used in coatings, paints and inks to provide good flow and adhesion. With the increasing demand for green products, the application field of oleic acid is still expanding.

storage method

The storage of oleic acid requires attention to factors such as temperature, light and oxygen. Since oleic acid has an unsaturated double bond, oxidation reaction easily occurs, resulting in degradation of quality. Therefore, oleic acid should be stored in a closed container to avoid prolonged contact with air. The storage environment should be kept cool and dry, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent heat and light-induced oxidation reactions. In actual industrial operations, oleic acid is usually stored in stainless steel or glass containers to prevent adverse effects from reacting with metals. To extend the shelf life of oleic acid, antioxidants are sometimes added to further inhibit the oxidation process.

Market Prospects

With the increasing demand for healthy diets and natural cosmetics, the market for oleic acid is promising. Especially in the food industry, where oleic-rich vegetable oils such as olive oil are highly regarded for their health benefits, the demand for oleic acid is expected to continue to grow in the future. The promotion of environmental protection policy also makes the market prospect of biodegradable lubricants and surfactants based on oleic acid. The volatility of the market still needs to be concerned, especially the instability of the upstream feedstock supply may have an impact on the price and supply chain of oleic acid. In general, oleic acid, as a multifunctional chemical, has good development potential.

Environmental Protection and Safety

Oleic acid performs well in terms of environmental protection and safety. As a naturally occurring fatty acid, oleic acid has good biodegradability and will not cause long-term pollution to the environment. Oleic acid itself is less toxic and less harmful to humans and the environment when used and handled properly. In the process of industrial production and application, it is still necessary to pay attention to safe operation to prevent leakage and misuse. Especially during storage and transportation, relevant regulations and standards should be followed to ensure safety and environmental protection.

Conclusion

As an important unsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid plays an important role in cosmetics, food and chemical industries due to its unique properties and wide application fields. Stable upstream raw material supply and scientific storage methods are essential to ensure the quality and market supply of oleic acid. With the continuous growth of market demand and the improvement of environmental protection awareness, the application prospect of oleic acid is broad. The volatility of the market and the stability of the supply chain still need attention to ensure the sustainable development of oleic acid. In the future, with the progress of technology and the development of new application fields, oleic acid is expected to play a greater role in more fields.