Specification
Description
Calcium stearate is carboxylate of calcium, classified as a calcium soap. It is a component of some lubricants, surfactants, as well as many foodstuffs. It is a white waxy powder.
Synonyms
Calcium octadecanoate
IUPAC Name
Calcium;octadecanoate
Canonical SMILES
CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)[O-].CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)[O-].[Ca+2]
InChI
CJZGTCYPCWQAJB-UHFFFAOYSA-L
InChI Key
InChI=1S/2C18H36O2.Ca/c2*1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-18(19)20;/h2*2-17H2,1H3,(H,19,20);/q;;+2/p-2
Solubility
0.004 G/100 CC H₂O AT 15 °C; INSOL IN ALCOHOL & ETHER;Slightly sol in hot vegetable and mineral oils; quite sol in hot pyridine;Solubility in water, g/100ml at 15 °C: 0.004
Application
Calcium stearate serves a multifaceted role across various industries due to its properties as a fine, bulky powder with a slight, characteristic odor. Primarily, it functions as an anticaking agent, binder, and emulsifier, making it invaluable in a range of applications from food products to industrial materials. In the food industry, calcium stearate is utilized as a flow agent in products like garlic salt, dry molasses, and vanilla powders, as well as a mold release agent in the production of pressed candies. It is also found in salad dressing mixes and meat tenderizers. Beyond food, this compound acts as a surface conditioner in candies, a waterproofing agent for fabrics, and a lubricant in items such as pencils and crayons. Notably, the concrete industry employs calcium stearate to control efflorescence in cementitious products, including pavers and blocks, and as a waterproofing element. In paper production, it enhances gloss and prevents dusting and fold cracking. In plastics, calcium stearate is used as an acid scavenger, lubricant, and release agent, and it enhances pigment wetting in colorant concentrates. Additionally, it improves fusion, flow, and die swell in rigid PVC. In the pharmaceutical and personal care sectors, calcium stearate is primarily used as a lubricant in tablet and capsule manufacturing, and also functions as an anti-tack and gelling agent. It is often found in cosmetics and food products for its emulsifying, stabilizing, and suspending properties, despite having poor glidant qualities.
Color/Form
CRYSTALLINE POWDER;Granular, fatty powder;FINE, WHITE TO YELLOWISH WHITE, BULKY POWDER
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
3
Decomposition
When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.
EC Number
216-472-8;266-106-6;616-781-1
Exact Mass
606.490002g/mol
Monoisotopic Mass
606.490002g/mol
Other Experimental
Decomp by many acids and alkalies
Safety Description
22-24/25-36-26
Stability
Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances. Keep containers tightly closed.