12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA)
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries is a premier manufacturer of 12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid (12-HSA), the industry-standard “Grease Thickener.”1 Derived from our own Hydrogenated Castor Oil, this saturated fatty acid is the backbone of the global lubricant industry, essential for producing high-performance Lithium and Calcium greases.
Unlike simple fatty acids, 12-HSA contains a hydroxyl group at the 12th carbon position.2 This unique structure allows for exceptional hydrogen bonding, creating stable, fibrous gel networks in oils and solvents.
1. Advanced Manufacturing Process
Nova Industries produces 12-HSA through a precise two-stage chemical engineering process:
Stage 1: Hydrogenation
- Feedstock: We start with high-purity Castor Oil (Triglyceride of Ricinoleic Acid).
- Reaction: The oil undergoes catalytic hydrogenation (typically with a Nickel catalyst).3 The double bonds in the ricinoleic acid chains are saturated.
- Intermediate: This transforms the liquid oil into Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO), a solid glyceride consisting of approximately 85% 12-Hydroxystearic residues.
Stage 2: Hydrolysis (Splitting)
- Saponification: The HCO is saponified using a Caustic Soda (NaOH) solution to split the glyceride bonds, forming sodium soaps.
- Acidulation: These soaps are treated with Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) or Sulfuric Acid to liberate the free fatty acid.
- Purification: The crude acid undergoes rigorous washing, drying, and flaking to isolate the pure 12-Hydroxy Stearic Acid.
Quality Control: The final properties (color, acid value, melting point) are strictly controlled by monitoring the hydrogenation efficiency and the thoroughness of the washing cycles.
2. Key Industrial Applications
Lubricating Greases (Primary Market)
12-HSA is the gold standard for thickening mineral and synthetic oils.
- Lithium Greases: When reacted with Lithium Hydroxide, 12-HSA forms Lithium 12-Hydroxystearate soap.4 This soap forms a stable, shear-resistant fiber matrix that holds the oil in place.5
- Performance: These greases combine the high heat tolerance of sodium greases with the water resistance of calcium greases.
- Advantages: Improved dropping points (up to 190°C), better mechanical stability, and superior texture compared to standard stearate greases.
Paints & Coatings
- Thermosetting Polymers: 12-HSA is reacted with acrylic esters to produce hard, durable polymers.6 These are used in high-quality automotive finishes and metal decorative coatings requiring impact resistance.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Gelling Agent: Used to gel liquid petrolatum (petroleum jelly), creating products with high brilliance.7
- Texture Modifier: Incorporated into cold creams and lotions to provide a rich, jelly-like emollient feel without excessive greasiness.
Plastics & Rubber
- Internal Lubricant: Functions as an activator and internal lubricant for both natural and synthetic rubbers, improving flow during processing.8
- Plasticizer: Used in PVC processing to improve flexibility.9
3. Technical Specifications (TDS)
Nova Industries ensures that our 12-HSA meets the stringent requirements of major grease manufacturers.
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
| CAS Number | 106-14-9 | — |
| Chemical Formula | $C_{18}H_{36}O_3$ | — |
| Appearance | Off-White to White Flakes | Visual |
| Acid Value | 175 Min | ISO 660 |
| Saponification Value | 180 – 190 | ISO 3657 |
| Hydroxyl Value | 155 Min | ISO 4326 |
| Iodine Value | 3.5 Max | ISO 3961 |
| Melting Point | 75°C Min | Capillary Tube |
| Color (Gardner) | 5.0 Max | ISO 4630 |
| Moisture Content | 0.5% Max | Karl Fischer |
Packaging & Availability
- Packaging: 25 Kg HDPE Laminated Bags / 500 Kg Jumbo Bags.
- Forms: Free-flowing flakes.
Contact Nova Industries for MSDS and Commercial Offers:
Website: https://novaind.in/