Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO) / Castor Wax
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries manufactures premium-grade Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO), also known globally as Castor Wax. By subjecting our high-purity Castor Oil to controlled hydrogenation, we transform the liquid oil into a hard, brittle, high-melting-point wax that serves as a critical rheology modifier across the lubricant and polymer industries.
1. The Manufacturing Process (Hydrogenation)
At our advanced facility, we utilize a catalytic hydrogenation process to saturate the double bonds present in the ricinoleic acid chains of the castor oil.1
- Reaction Mechanism: Hydrogen gas is bubbled through the liquid castor oil in a pressurized reactor vessel in the presence of a Nickel catalyst.2
- Process Conditions: The reaction is strictly controlled at temperatures between 125°C – 135°C and pressures of 2 – 2.5 kg/cm².
- Chemical Transformation: The process saturates the olefinic double bonds, converting the unsaturated ricinoleic triglyceride into 12-Hydroxystearic Triglyceride.
- Result: The liquid oil converts into a hard, white, varying-melting-point solid (Castor Wax) with improved oxidative stability, neutral odor, and higher viscosity.
2. Key Properties & Performance
Hydrogenated Castor Oil is unique among waxes due to its secondary hydroxyl group.3
- Solubility Profile: It is insoluble in water and most organic solvents at room temperature, making it highly resistant to chemical attack.4 It becomes soluble only in hot solvents.
- Water Resistance: It imparts exceptional hydrophobicity while retaining lubricity and surface wetting properties.5
- Thermal Stability: With a high melting point (approx. 86°C), it maintains structural integrity in high-temperature applications where other natural waxes would fail.
3. Industrial Applications
Lubricants & Greases (Primary Market)
- Thickening Agent: HCO is the primary thickener used to manufacture multi-purpose Lithium and Calcium greases.6 Its insolubility ensures the grease does not break down in the presence of water or oils.
- Metal Working Fluids: Used as a metal drawing lubricant due to its high lubricity and film strength.7
Coatings, Paints & Sealants
- Rheology Modifier: It acts as a thixotropic agent (anti-sagging additive) in thick-film coatings, caulks, and sealants.8 It allows the product to flow during application but regain viscosity immediately to prevent dripping.
- Polyurethanes: Due to the presence of secondary hydroxyl groups, HCO is used as a polyol modifier in polyurethane coating formulations to improve hardness and gloss retention.9
Plastics & Rubber
- Processing Aid: Functions as an internal and external lubricant in PVC processing.10
- Release Agent: Used as a pressure mold release agent in the manufacturing of formed plastics and rubber goods.11
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Structure Builder: Provides structure and hardness to stick products (lipsticks, antiperspirants) and thickens creams and ointments.12
4. Technical Specifications (TDS)
Nova Industries guarantees consistent quality parameters for every batch.
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
| Appearance | White Flakes / Powder | Visual |
| Odor | Neutral / Almost Odorless | Organoleptic |
| Melting Point | 85°C – 88°C | Capillary Tube |
| Acid Value | 2.0 Max | ISO 660 |
| Iodine Value | 5.0 Max | ISO 3961 |
| Hydroxyl Value | 155 – 165 Min | ISO 4326 |
| Saponification Value | 175 – 185 | ISO 3657 |
| Color (Gardner) | 2 Max | ISO 4630 |
| Nickel Content | 3 ppm Max | ICP-OES |
| Flash Point | > 240°C | DIN ISO 2592 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.02 @ 25°C | — |
Packaging & Storage
- Packaging: Available in 25 Kg HDPE Bags (Laminated) or 500 Kg Jumbo Bags.13
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The product is stable for 2 years under standard conditions.
For Commercial Inquiries & Bulk Orders:
Nova Industries
Website: https://novaind.in/