Erucylamide
[CAS# 112-84-5]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Amino compound >> Amide compound
• Name: Erucylamide
• Synonyms: cis-13-Docosenoamide; (Z)-13-Docosenamide
• Molecular Formula: C₂₂H₄₃NO
• Molecular Weight: 337.59
• CAS Registry Number: 112-84-5
• EC Number: 204-009-2
• SMILES: CCCCCCCC/C=CCCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)N

Properties

• Melting point: 79-81 °C
• Flash point: 230 °C
• Water solubility: PRACTICALLY INSOLUBLE

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302

Discovery and Applications

Erucamide, also known as erucic acid amide, is a fatty acid amide derived from erucic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid found primarily in the seeds of cruciferous plants, such as rapeseed and mustard. The chemical formula of erucamide is CH₃(CH₂)₇CH=CH(CH₂)₁₁CONH₂. Its discovery was associated with the extraction and processing of oils from these seeds, with the first identification of erucic acid, which is then amidated to form erucamide. The process typically involves the reaction of erucic acid with ammonia or related amines under specific conditions.

Erucamide is a white waxy solid at room temperature with a melting point of approximately 76-83°C. Its long hydrocarbon chain carries double bonds, making it hydrophobic, while the amide group gives it some polarity. This combination of properties makes erucamide an effective slip agent, whose function depends largely on its ability to reduce friction between surfaces.

Erucamide is widely used in the production of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) films. It migrates to the surface of the film, forming a low-friction layer that enhances the handling and processing properties of plastic films. This slip-enhancing effect is essential for packaging applications that require easy movement.

In textile manufacturing, erucamide prevents fabrics from sticking together, promoting smoother processing. Its application range extends to improving the texture and flexibility of textile products.

The properties of erucamide make it an effective additive in lubricants to reduce friction and wear between moving parts. It is also used in coatings to enhance sliding properties and reduce stickiness.

In the paper and ink industry, erucamide is used to prevent the adhesion of inks and adhesives, thereby improving the quality and efficiency of printing and packaging processes.

Erucamide is used in food packaging materials because it is non-toxic and meets food safety standards. It helps maintain the integrity of the packaging and ensures that food is protected from environmental factors.

Erucamide is considered safe for use in a variety of applications, including food contact materials. However, like all chemicals, its environmental impact is monitored. It is biodegradable, but care needs to be taken to ensure that its production and use do not have an adverse impact on the environment. Regulatory agencies set guidelines and limits for their use to protect human health and environmental quality.

References

1978. Antimicrobial properties of some fatty ester-amides. Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society.
DOI: 10.1007/bf02682657

2023. Fecal microbiota transplantation confirmed that 919 Syrup reduced the ratio of erucamide to 5-AVAB in hippocampus to alleviate postpartum depression by regulating gut microbes. Frontiers in Immunology.
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1203015

2024. Classification of ToF-SIMS detected chemicals causing nearly 1000 automotive paint craters. Journal of Coatings Technology and Research.
DOI: 10.1007/s11998-024-00992-7