Hydrogenated castor oil
[CAS# 8001-78-3]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Digestive system medication >> Other digestive system medication
• Name: Hydrogenated castor oil
• Synonyms: Kolliwax HCO; Ligalub 9GE-H; Lovely Wax 101; Lubliwax; Lubriwax 101; Lubry Wax 103; Luvotix HT; MPA 1075; MT ST; Namlon T 206; Opalwax; Peretex CO 36; Protegin W; Protegin WX; Radia 3200; Ricanolein; Ricigel; Ricinocerol; Rilanit Special; SN 4040; SR 309; SiberFlow C 85; Synthawax; T 20SF; Tagat R 60; Thixcin; Thixcin E; Thixin; Thixomen; Tixcin E; WNN 1
• Molecular Formula: C₅₇H₁₁₀O₉
• Molecular Weight: 939.48
• CAS Registry Number: 8001-78-3
• EC Number: 232-292-2
• SMILES: CCCCCCC(O)CCCCCCCCCCC(=O)OCC(COC(=O)CCCCCCCCCCC(O)CCCCCC)OC(=O)CCCCCCCCCCC(O)CCCCCC

Safety Data

Hazard Classification

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

Discovery and Applications

Hydrogenated castor oil is a refined derivative of castor oil obtained by the catalytic hydrogenation of the unsaturated fatty acids present in natural castor oil. Castor oil itself is extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant and is rich in ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid with a hydroxyl group. The hydrogenation process saturates the double bonds in the fatty acid chains, transforming the liquid oil into a solid or semi-solid waxy substance with increased stability and a higher melting point.

The discovery and development of hydrogenated castor oil are linked to the broader exploration of hydrogenation processes in the early 20th century, which aimed to improve the physical and chemical properties of natural oils and fats. Hydrogenation of castor oil was introduced as a method to produce a stable, non-greasy wax-like material suitable for various industrial and pharmaceutical applications.

Hydrogenated castor oil is widely used as an excipient in the pharmaceutical industry. It serves as an emollient, lubricant, and thickening agent in topical formulations such as creams, ointments, and lotions. Its waxy texture and hydrophobic nature provide desirable consistency and stability to these products. It is also utilized in the formulation of suppositories and controlled-release drug delivery systems due to its ability to form a solid matrix that can modulate drug release.

In the cosmetics industry, hydrogenated castor oil is valued for its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties. It is frequently incorporated into lipsticks, lip balms, hair care products, and other personal care formulations to improve texture, gloss, and spreadability. Its compatibility with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients enhances product performance and sensory appeal.

Industrial applications of hydrogenated castor oil include its use as a lubricant, plasticizer, and stabilizer in the manufacture of plastics, rubbers, and coatings. Its resistance to oxidation and rancidity extends the shelf life of products and enhances their durability.

Hydrogenated castor oil is produced by treating castor oil with hydrogen gas in the presence of a metal catalyst, commonly nickel, under controlled temperature and pressure conditions. The degree of hydrogenation can be adjusted to yield products with different melting points and physical properties, catering to specific application needs.

In summary, hydrogenated castor oil is a solid or semi-solid wax derived from the hydrogenation of natural castor oil. Developed through advancements in hydrogenation technology in the early 20th century, it is extensively used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial products for its emollient, lubricant, and stabilizing properties. Its stability, versatility, and compatibility continue to make it an important ingredient across multiple sectors.

References

1981. Bollettino Chimico Farmaceutico., 120(557).