LITHIUM STEARATE- ▸ Grease thickener: Gels base oils into multipurpose lithium greases.
- ▸ Lubricant: Internal and mold-release lubricant for plastics.
- ▸ Stabilizer: Processing stabilizer and anticaking agent.
- ▸ Coatings: Viscosity control and opacifying.
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 →Lithium stearate (CAS 4485-12-5) is the lithium salt of stearic acid. It is used primarily as a thickener and gelling agent that converts oils into lithium-soap lubricating greases, and as a lubricant, mold-release, and stabilizing additive in plastics and coatings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is lithium stearate used for?
Lithium stearate (CAS 4485-12-5) is the lithium salt of stearic acid, used primarily as a thickener and gelling agent that converts base oils into lithium-soap multipurpose lubricating greases. It also serves as an internal and mold-release lubricant in plastics, a processing stabilizer and anticaking agent, and a viscosity/opacifying additive in coatings.
How does lithium stearate thicken grease?
Dispersed in base oil and processed under heat, lithium stearate forms a fibrous soap network that immobilizes the oil into a semi-solid grease structure. This lithium-soap thickening gives multipurpose greases their characteristic mechanical and thermal stability.
What is the molecular formula and CAS number of lithium stearate?
Lithium stearate has the formula C18H35LiO2 and carries CAS 4485-12-5. It classifies under HS code 2915.70 (palmitic acid, stearic acid, their salts and esters).
Is lithium stearate soluble in water?
Lithium stearate is a metallic soap with very low water solubility; it is oil-dispersible, which is the property that makes it effective as a grease thickener and as a lubricant additive in non-aqueous systems.
Does RawSource supply lithium stearate 306 powder in bulk?
RawSource distributes lithium stearate powder in bulk industrial quantities for grease, plastics, and coatings manufacturers. A Certificate of Analysis and Safety Data Sheet ship with each order; request both along with a bulk quote for your target volume.