Castor Oil C-11 Derivatives
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries specializes in the high-temperature Pyrolysis (Cracking) of Castor Oil to produce the C-11 Series of oleochemicals.
When Ricinoleic Acid (or its Methyl Ester) is subjected to thermal decomposition at $>450^\circ C$, it cleaves into two primary fragments: the volatile C-7 aldehyde (Heptaldehyde) and the long-chain C-11 unsaturated fragment. This C-11 chain is the foundation for high-performance biopolymers (Nylon-11) and FDA-approved antifungals.
1. Undecylenic Acid
The Biopolymer & Pharma Precursor
Undecylenic Acid is an unsaturated fatty acid (10-undecenoic acid) produced via the hydrolysis of Methyl Undecylenate or direct pyrolysis.1
- Polyamide-11 (Nylon-11): This is the single largest industrial application. Undecylenic Acid is chemically modified (via hydrobromination and amination) to produce 11-Aminoundecanoic Acid, the monomer for Nylon-11.2 This high-performance polymer is used in automotive fuel lines, pneumatic tubing, and offshore oil pipes due to its exceptional toughness and chemical resistance.3
- Pharmaceuticals: FDA-approved as a topical antifungal agent.4 It is used to treat dermatomycoses (Athlete’s Foot, Ringworm) due to its ability to disrupt fungal cell membrane formation.5
- Perfumery: Used as a precursor for synthetic musks and antibacterial deodorizers.6
2. Methyl Undecylenate
The Primary Intermediate
Methyl Undecylenate is the methyl ester of Undecylenic Acid, typically produced directly by the pyrolysis of Methyl Ricinoleate.
- Purity Advantage: Cracking the methyl ester (rather than the oil) yields a cleaner product profile.
- Applications:
- Chemical Intermediate: The starting material for manufacturing Undecylenic Acid (via hydrolysis) and Nylon-11 monomers.
- Fragrance & Flavors: Used in perfumery for its honey-like, waxy odor profile.
- Formulations: Acts as a chemical intermediate in cosmetic formulations requiring anti-odor properties.7
3. Undecanoic Acid
The Saturated C-11
Undecanoic Acid (Undecylic Acid) is the saturated derivative produced by the hydrogenation of Undecylenic Acid.
- Applications:
- Nylon Precursor: Products like Amino-Undecanoic Acid serve as precursors for Nylon-11 via self-polycondensation.8
- Fragrance: Used as a chemical intermediate for the manufacture of esters used in flavors and perfumes.9
- Dermatology: Used as an active principle in ointments with dermatophilic activity.
4. Zinc Undecylenate
The Antifungal Salt
Zinc Undecylenate is the Zinc salt of Undecylenic Acid.10
- Synergistic Action: It is often combined with free Undecylenic Acid in pharmaceutical preparations. The Zinc salt provides astringent properties (drying out the skin) while the acid attacks the fungus.
- Stability: Reports indicate it is highly stable and provides sustained release of the active fatty acid.
- Uses: The primary active ingredient in antifungal powders, creams, and ointments for relieving itching, burning, and superficial fungal infections.11
Technical Specifications (Snapshot)
Nova Industries offers the full C-11 spectrum with high purity for polymer and pharma applications.
| Product | CAS Number | Chemical Formula | Key Characteristic |
| Undecylenic Acid | 112-38-9 | $C_{11}H_{20}O_2$ | Unsaturated, Bifunctional |
| Methyl Undecylenate | 111-81-9 | $C_{12}H_{22}O_2$ | Methyl Ester, Low Viscosity |
| Undecanoic Acid | 112-37-8 | $C_{11}H_{22}O_2$ | Saturated Solid |
| Zinc Undecylenate12 | 557-08-413 | $C_{22}H_{38}O_4Zn$ | White Fine Powder14 |
Packaging & Safety
- Acids/Esters: 190 Kg Epoxy-Lined Drums / ISO Tanks.
- Zinc Salt: 25 Kg Multi-wall Paper Bags with Liner.
- Storage: Store in cool, dry conditions. C-11 derivatives are generally stable but should be protected from extreme heat.
For Biopolymer & Pharma Feedstock:
Nova Industries
Website: https://novaind.in/
