Squalane
[CAS# 111-01-3]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Hydrocarbon compounds and their derivatives >> Acyclic hydrocarbon
• Name: Squalane
• Synonyms: 2,6,10,15,19,23-Hexamethyltetracosane
• Molecular Formula: C₃₀H₆₂
• Molecular Weight: 422.81
• CAS Registry Number: 111-01-3
• EC Number: 203-825-6
• SMILES: CC(C)CCCC(C)CCCC(C)CCCCC(C)CCCC(C)CCCC(C)C

Properties

• Density: 0.8±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*. 0.809 g/mL (4 °C) (Expl.)
• Melting point: -38 °C (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.448, Calc.^*, 1.451 (Expl.)
• Boiling Point: 470.3±0.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 210-215 °C (1 mmHg) (Expl.)
• Flash Point: 217.8±0.0 °C, Calc.^*, 218 degree$C (Expl.)

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319
• Safety Statements: P264-P280-P302+P352+P332+P313+P362+P364-P305+P351+P338+P337+P313

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	4	H413

Discovery and Applications

Squalane is a saturated hydrocarbon derived from squalene, a natural compound found in shark liver oil and plant sources like olives and sugarcane. The discovery of squalane dates back to the early 20th century when researchers sought to stabilize squalene for industrial and cosmetic use. Unlike squalene, squalane is fully hydrogenated, making it more stable and resistant to oxidation. This stability, combined with its beneficial properties, led to widespread adoption in skincare, pharmaceuticals, and various industrial applications.

The synthesis of squalane involves the hydrogenation of squalene under high pressure and temperature in the presence of a catalyst, typically nickel. This process saturates the double bonds in squalene, resulting in a colorless, odorless, and highly stable liquid. Advances in green chemistry have enabled the production of squalane from sustainable plant-based sources, reducing the reliance on shark-derived squalene and addressing environmental concerns.

Squalane's applications are primarily centered in the cosmetic and personal care industries due to its exceptional moisturizing and emollient properties. It is widely used in skincare products such as creams, serums, and moisturizers because it mimics the skin's natural lipids, enhancing hydration and barrier function. Its non-comedogenic nature makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Additionally, squalane is valued for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and protect the skin from oxidative stress.

Beyond cosmetics, squalane is used in pharmaceuticals as a carrier for drug delivery systems and in vaccines to enhance immune response. Its biocompatibility and stability make it a versatile component in medical formulations. In industrial applications, squalane serves as a high-performance lubricant and a component in biodegradable and non-toxic formulations.

The discovery and development of squalane have underscored the importance of sustainable sourcing and innovation in the chemical and cosmetic industries. Ongoing research focuses on improving production methods and exploring new applications, ensuring that squalane remains a valuable and environmentally responsible resource.

References

2012. Multi-Compartmental Vaccine Delivery System for Enhanced Immune Response to gp100 Peptide Antigen in Melanoma Immunotherapy. Pharmaceutical Research.
DOI: 10.1007/s11095-012-0834-1

2010. Clinical Evaluation of Fullerene-C60 Dissolved in Squalane for Anti-Wrinkle Cosmetics. Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.
DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2010.3053

1984. Squalene isolation by HPLC and quantitative comparison by HPLC and GLC. Lipids.
DOI: 10.1007/bf02534723