Butyl oleate

Butyl oleate is a fatty acid ester derived from butanol and oleic acid. It is a colorless to light yellow liquid with a characteristic odor. Butyl oleate is used in various industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and lubricants due to its properties as a plasticizer, lubricant, and emollient.

Chemical Structure

Butyl oleate has the chemical formula C22H42O2. It is an ester formed from the condensation of butanol and oleic acid. The oleic acid molecule contributes a long hydrocarbon chain to the structure, making butyl oleate a non-polar compound with low solubility in water.

Production

Butyl oleate is typically produced through the esterification of butanol and oleic acid. This process involves the reaction of the alcohol (butanol) with the carboxylic acid (oleic acid) to form the ester (butyl oleate) and water. The reaction is typically catalyzed by an acid catalyst.

Applications

Butyl oleate finds use in a variety of industries due to its versatile properties.

Cosmetics

In the cosmetics industry, butyl oleate is used as an emollient and skin conditioning agent. It helps to soften the skin and hair by forming a layer on the surface that prevents moisture loss.

Pharmaceuticals

In pharmaceutical formulations, butyl oleate serves as a plasticizer and lubricant. It is used in the production of capsules and tablets, helping to improve their mechanical properties and ease of swallowing.

Lubricants

Butyl oleate is also used in the production of lubricants. Its long hydrocarbon chain gives it excellent lubricating properties, making it suitable for use in a variety of applications, from automotive lubricants to industrial machinery.

Safety

Butyl oleate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. However, like all chemicals, it should be handled with care to avoid skin and eye irritation.

See Also

• Ester
• Butanol
• Oleic acid
• Esterification
• Emollient
• Plasticizer
• Lubricant