Stearate

Stearate is a salt or ester of stearic acid. It is a type of fatty acid that is commonly found in animal and vegetable fats. Stearate is used in a variety of applications, including as a surfactant in soaps and cosmetics, as a food additive, and in the production of plastics and rubber.

Chemical Structure

Stearate is composed of a long chain of 18 carbon atoms, with a carboxyl group at one end. The carboxyl group can form a salt or ester with a variety of other substances, resulting in different types of stearates. For example, when stearic acid reacts with sodium hydroxide, it forms sodium stearate, a type of soap.

Uses

Stearate is used in a wide range of applications due to its properties as a surfactant and emulsifier. In the cosmetics industry, it is used in the production of soaps, shampoos, and other personal care products. It is also used as a food additive, where it acts as a stabilizer and thickener. In the plastics and rubber industry, stearate is used as a release agent and as a component in plasticizers.

Health and Safety

While stearate is generally considered safe for use in food and cosmetics, some studies have suggested that high levels of exposure may have negative health effects. However, these findings are not conclusive and further research is needed.

See Also

• Stearic acid
• Fatty acid
• Surfactant
• Ester
• Salt