What is 12‑Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12‑HSA)?

12‑HSA is a C18 saturated hydroxy fatty acid derived mainly from castor oil, supplied as a white to off‑white waxy solid used as a powerful gelling and thickening agent in many industries.

What are the main applications of 12‑HSA?

It is widely used in lithium and lithium‑complex greases, coatings and inks, plastics and rubber compounds, polishes, waxes, and cosmetic sticks and creams as a structurant and rheology modifier.

Why is 12‑HSA important for lubricating greases?

12‑HSA reacts with metal soaps (especially lithium) to build stable, high‑temperature grease structures with good mechanical stability, water resistance and controlled NLGI consistency.

How is 12‑HSA used in cosmetics and personal care?

It acts as a consistency agent and wax in deodorant sticks, balms, creams and hair‑styling products, improving hardness, payoff, texture and long‑term stability of the formula.

What key specs should buyers check on the 12‑HSA COA?

Critical parameters include melting range (typically about 70–77 °C), acid value, purity, colour, moisture and sometimes particle size, as these directly affect gelling strength and processing.

Is 12‑HSA bio‑based and biodegradable?

Yes. 12‑HSA is castor‑derived and therefore bio‑based, and like other fatty acids it is readily biodegradable under normal environmental conditions.

In what packaging formats is 12‑HSA typically supplied?

It is commonly supplied as flakes, beads or powder in multi‑layer bags or fiber drums, palletized for grease, coating, plastic and cosmetic manufacturers.

How should 12‑HSA be stored to maintain quality?

Store in a cool, dry place in tightly closed packaging, away from moisture and excessive heat; under recommended storage 12‑HSA generally keeps its quality for 12–24 months (see CanCastor COA).

12‑Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12‑HSA) – Castor‑Derived Gelling Agent for Grease & Cosmetics

Name: 12‑Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12‑HSA) – Castor‑Derived Gelling Agent for Grease & Cosmetics
Brand: CanCastor
SKU: 113ed3ec-515b-4686-b565-f75610b0bf1c
Availability: InStock

12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA) from CanCastor is a versatile and high-performance fatty acid, meticulously derived from sustainable castor oil. As a prominent castor oil derivative, 12-HSA boasts a unique hydroxyl group at the 12th carbon position, imparting exceptional properties that are invaluable across diverse industrial applications. This saturated fatty acid, with its inherent purity and stability, serves as a foundational building block for formulators seeking to elevate the performance and longevity of their end products.

Unlocking Superior Performance with 12-HSA

Our 12-HSA is renowned for its critical role in high-performance lithium and calcium greases. It functions as a powerful gelling agent, contributing to the structural integrity, thermal stability, and water resistance of lubricants. This translates to extended equipment life and reduced maintenance in demanding operational environments. Beyond lubrication, 12-HSA is an indispensable additive in the plastics industry, acting as an internal lubricant, slip agent, and processing aid to improve flow characteristics and surface finish. Its presence helps reduce friction during extrusion and molding, leading to enhanced productivity and product quality.

Innovation in Coatings and Beyond

In coatings formulations, 12-HSA serves as an effective rheology modifier and dispersing agent, improving pigment suspension and overall application properties. Its ability to influence viscosity and improve adhesion makes it a vital component for durable and aesthetically pleasing finishes. CanCastor’s commitment to quality ensures a consistent supply of premium 12-HSA, empowering innovators to create superior products while adhering to sustainable practices. Choose CanCastor's 12-HSA for unmatched purity, consistent performance, and a renewable resource advantage in your critical applications.

Acid Value	180-188 mg KOH/g
Melting Point	70-75 °C
Hydroxyl Value	155-165 mg KOH/g
Color (Gardner)	Max 2
Saponification Value	185-195 mg KOH/g

Technical Specifications

12‑Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12‑HSA) – Castor‑Derived Gelling Agent for Grease & Cosmetics

Description

Unlocking Superior Performance with 12-HSA

Innovation in Coatings and Beyond

Frequently Asked Questions

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