Lanolin alcohol
General Product Information
| Article | Lanolin alcohol |
| Synonyms. | Wool alcohol, Wool wax alcohol |
| CAS No. | 8027-33-6 |
| EEG No. | – |
| EINECS No. | 232-430-1 |
| IMO | – |
| Tariff Code | 15059000 |
| UN No. | – |
| VLG/ADR | – |
Description
Lanolin alcohol is an organic compound derived from lanolin, a natural fatty substance extracted from the wool of sheep. It is a mixture of alcohols, mainly consisting of lanolin alcohols (C20-30) that play an important role in various industrial Applications. Lanolin alcohol is mainly used in the cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Industry for its moisturizing properties and ability to protect the skin from dehydration. It is also used in the food industry as an emulsifier and as an additive for the production of certain cosmetic products such as creams, lotions and ointments.
Characteristics
- Odor: Odorless or slight animal odor.
- Hygroscopic: –
- Color: White to yellow.
- Grade: Food.
- Solubility: Soluble in alcohols and fats, but hardly soluble in water.
- Taste: –
- Shape: Solid or semi-solid in consistency, depending on temperature.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Chemical Structure | C22H47OH (depending on the specific mixture of alcohols) |
| Molar Weight | – |
| Melting Point | 38-40 °C (depending on the specific composition). |
| Boiling Point | – |
| Density | 0.85-0.9 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | – |
| pH | Neutral to slightly alkaline. |
Applications
Lanolin alcohol is applied in various ways, for instance:
1. Food Industry
Lanolin alcohol is used as an emulsifier in the food industry, for example, in products such as margarine and some dairy products.
2. Pharmaceutical Industry
In pharmacy, it is used in ointment and cream formulations, especially to treat dry skin and burns. It has soothing properties and helps at repairing the skin.
3. Cosmetic Industry
Lanolin alcohol is widely used in the production of creams, lotions, lip balms and other skin care products because of its moisturizing and protective properties. It helps moisturize the skin and forms a protective layer that strengthens the skin barrier.
4. Industrial Applications
In addition to the industries mentioned, lanolin alcohol can also be found in lubricants and some coatings, where it helps at improving the consistency and stability of formulations.
Interessing Links
- Codex Alimentarius (FAO/WHO) – Guidelines and standards for food additives and ingredients.
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – For chemical information and regulations.
- European Food Information Council (EFIC)
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) – Information on the safety and uses of food additives and ingredients.