STEARYL ALCOHOL- ▸ Emollient and co-emulsifier: Conditions and stabilizes creams, lotions, and emulsions.
- ▸ Viscosity and opacity control: Thickens and opacifies formulated products.
- ▸ Antifoam agent: Controls foam in industrial and bioprocess systems.
- ▸ Chemical intermediate: Feedstock for surfactants and downstream derivatives.
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Request SDS →Stearyl alcohol (octadecan-1-ol, CAS 112-92-5) is a saturated long-chain fatty alcohol. It is used as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, opacifier, and viscosity-controlling agent in cosmetics and creams, as an antifoam agent, in textile oils and finishes, and as a chemical intermediate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is stearyl alcohol used for?
Stearyl alcohol (C18-OH, CAS 112-92-5) is a saturated long-chain fatty alcohol used as an emollient and co-emulsifier in creams and lotions, as a viscosity- and opacity-control agent in formulated products, as an antifoam agent in industrial and bioprocess systems, and as a chemical intermediate for surfactants and downstream derivatives.
What is the difference between stearyl alcohol and stearic acid?
They are distinct chemicals. Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol (C18H38O, terminal -OH group); stearic acid is a fatty acid (C18H36O2, terminal -COOH group). Stearyl alcohol is typically used to thicken and stabilize emulsions, while stearic acid is more commonly used as an acid-functional intermediate and structurant.
Is stearyl alcohol an alcohol?
Chemically yes, it is a long-chain fatty alcohol (octadecan-1-ol) rather than a volatile drinking alcohol like ethanol. It is a waxy solid at room temperature and behaves as an emollient and structurant, not as a drying short-chain alcohol.
How is stearyl alcohol supplied in bulk?
We supply stearyl alcohol in bulk industrial packaging such as bags, drums, and full pallets to manufacturers. CAS is 112-92-5; HS classification is 2905.17 (octadecan-1-ol). Request a quote with your target volume and packaging for current bulk pricing, along with the CoA and SDS.
What HS code is used for stearyl alcohol?
Stearyl alcohol is classified under HS 2905.17, covering dodecan-1-ol, hexadecan-1-ol and octadecan-1-ol (lauryl, cetyl and stearyl alcohol). Confirm the destination-country tariff line with your customs broker, as national subheadings can differ.