Lauric Acid

Category

Emulsifying Agents; food additive; Lubricant; Surfactant

Molecular Formula

C12H24O2

Molecular Weight

200.32

Grade

Pharmceutical Excipients

Description

Lauric acid occurs as a white crystalline powder with a slight odor of bay oil.

UNII

1160N9NU9U

Chemical Name

Dodecanoic acid

CAS Number

143-07-7

Synonyms

C-1297; dodecanoic acid; dodecoic acid; duodecylic acid; ndodecanoic acid; Hydrofol acid 1255; Hydrofol acid 1295; Hystrene 9512; laurostearic acid; Neo-fat 12; Neo-fat 12-43; Ninol AA62 Extra; 1-undecanecarboxylic acid; vulvic acid; Wecoline 1295

Stability and Storage Conditions

Lauric acid is stable at normal temperatures and should be stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid sources of ignition and contact with incompatible materials.

Source and Preparation

Lauric acid is a fatty carboxylic acid isolated from vegetable and animal fats or oils. For example, coconut oil and palm kernel oil both contain high proportions of lauric acid. Isolation from natural fats and oils involves hydrolysis, separation of the fatty acids, hydrogenation to convert unsaturated fatty acids to saturated acids, and finally distillation of the specific fatty acid of interest.

Applications

Lauric acid is widely used in cosmetics and food products. In pharmaceutical applications it has also been examined for use as an enhancer for topical penetration and transdermal absorption, rectal absorption, buccal delivery, and intestinal absorption.It is also useful for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions. Lauric acid has also been evaluated for use in aerosol formulations.

Safety

Lauric acid is widely used in cosmetic preparations, in the manufacture of food-grade additives, and in pharmaceutical formulations. General exposure to lauric acid occurs through the consumption of food and through dermal contact with cosmetics, soaps, and detergent products. Lauric acid is toxic when administered intravenously. Occupational exposure may cause local irritation of eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory tract, although lauric acid is considered safe and nonirritating for use in cosmetics. No toxicological effects were observed when lauric acid was administered to rats at 35% of the diet for 2 years. Acute exposure tests in rabbits indicate mild irritation. After subcutaneous injection into mice, lauric acid was shown to be noncarcinogenic. LD50 (mouse, IV): 0.13 g/kg LD50 (rat, oral): 12 g/kg

Incompatibilities

Lauric acid is incompatible with strong bases, reducing agents, and oxidizing agents.