Potassium stearate is a metal-organic compound, a salt of potassium and stearic acid with the chemical formula C
18H
35KO
2. The compound is classified as a metallic soap, i.e. a metal derivative of a fatty acid.[1][2]
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Other names
Potassium octadecanoate
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Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol)
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ChemSpider | |
ECHA InfoCard | 100.008.898 |
EC Number |
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PubChem CID
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UNII | |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA)
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Properties | |
C 18H 35KO 2 | |
Molar mass | 322.56 |
Appearance | colorless crystals |
Density | 1.12 g/cm3 |
Boiling point | 359.4 °C (678.9 °F; 632.5 K) |
soluble in hot water | |
Hazards | |
GHS labelling: | |
Warning | |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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Synthesis
editPotassium stearate may be prepared by saturating a hot alcoholic solution of stearic acid with alcoholic potash.[3]
Physical properties
editThe compound forms colorless crystals.
Slightly soluble in cold water, soluble in hot water, ethanol, insoluble in ether, chloroform, carbon disulfide.[4] A component of liquid soap.
Uses
editThe compound is primarily used as an emulsifier in cosmetics and in food products. It is also used as a cleansing ingredient and lubricant.[5][6]
Hazards
editCauses skin irritation and serious eye irritation.[7]
References
edit- ^ "potassium stearate". paulaschoice-eu.com. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
- ^ "Potassium Stearate". Cosmetics Info. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
- ^ Allen, Alfred Henry (1886). Commercial Organic Analysis: Being a Treatise on the Properties, Proximate Analytical Examination, and Modes of Assaying the Various Organic Chemicals and Preparations Employed in the Arts, Manufactures, Medicine, &c. With Concise Methods for the Detection and Determination of Their Impurities, Adulterations, and Products of Decomposition. ... P. Biakiston & Son. p. 230. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
- ^ "Potassium Stearate". Silver Fern Chemical Inc. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
- ^ "Potassium Stearate OPK-1000". Hallstar BPC. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
- ^ "potassium stearate | Paula's Choice". Paula's Choice. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
- ^ "Potassium Stearate". American Elements. Retrieved 7 March 2023.