Sebacic Acid (Decanedioic Acid)
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries supplies high-purity Sebacic Acid, a linear C-10 dicarboxylic acid derived principally from renewable Castor Oil.
As a “Generation II” castor derivative, Sebacic Acid is a cornerstone of Green Chemistry. Its linear carbon chain and dual carboxylic acid groups make it the ideal monomer for high-performance bio-polymers (polyamides), biodegradable plastics, and low-temperature lubricants.
1. Production: The Green Route
While Sebacic Acid can be synthesized from petrochemical Adipic Acid (via electro-oxidation), Nova Industries focuses on the “Green Route” via Castor Oil alkali fusion.
- Process: Castor Oil is hydrolyzed to Ricinoleic Acid, which is then subjected to high-temperature alkali fusion ($250^\circ C$) with Caustic Soda/Potash.
- Cleavage: The Ricinoleic molecule cleaves at the C-10 position, releasing 2-Octanol (Capryl Alcohol) as a valuable co-product and forming Disodium Sebacate.
- Purification: The salt is acidified, precipitated, and purified to yield white, crystalline Sebacic Acid.$$Ricinoleic \ Acid \xrightarrow{NaOH/ \Delta} Sebacic \ Acid \ (C_{10}) + 2-Octanol \ (C_8)$$
2. Key Industrial Applications
Bio-Polymers (Polyamides)
- Nylon 6-10: Sebacic Acid is polymerized with Hexamethylene Diamine (not diisocyanate) to produce Nylon 6-10. This engineering plastic offers lower moisture absorption and higher dimensional stability than Nylon 6 or 6-6, making it critical for bristles, monofilaments, and automotive parts.
- Bio-Plastics: Used in the synthesis of biodegradable polyesters and alkyd resins.
Plasticizers (Esters)
Sebacic Acid is the parent molecule for high-performance esters used in PVC and synthetic rubber.
- Dioctyl Sebacate (DOS): A premier low-temperature plasticizer for PVC cables and wire jacketing, ensuring flexibility in arctic conditions.
- Dibutyl Sebacate (DBS): Non-toxic plasticizer approved for food packaging films and pharmaceutical coatings.
Lubricants & Corrosion Inhibition
- Complex Greases: Reacted with Lithium 12-Hydroxystearate to form “Lithium Complex” greases, which handle higher temperatures and loads than standard greases.
- Metalworking Fluids: The acid and its salts act as non-foaming corrosion inhibitors in water-based cutting fluids (coolants).
3. Technical Specifications (TDS)
Nova Industries supplies a highly refined Granular/Powder grade.
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
| Product Name | Sebacic Acid | — |
| Synonyms | Decanedioic Acid, 1,8-Octanedicarboxylic Acid | — |
| CAS Number | 111-20-6 | — |
| Formula | $C_{10}H_{18}O_4$ | — |
| Molecular Weight | 202.25 g/mol | — |
| Appearance | White Granular Powder or Flakes | Visual |
| Purity | 99.5% Min | Titration |
| Melting Point | 131°C – 134.5°C | ISO 6321 |
| Ash Content | 0.05% Max | ISO 247 |
| Moisture | 0.2% Max | Karl Fischer |
| Color (APHA) | 15 Max (in solution) | ISO 6271 |
| Acid Value | 550 – 555 mg KOH/g | ISO 660 |
| Solubility | Soluble in Ethanol, Ether; Slightly in Water | — |
| Specific Gravity | 1.207 | — |
Packaging & Supply
- Packaging: 25 Kg Multi-wall Paper Bags / 500 Kg or 1000 Kg Jumbo Bags.
- Supply Context: Global production is concentrated in China and India. As a key player, Nova Industries ensures consistent supply chain management to mitigate market volatility often associated with Castor Oil crops.
For Bio-Polymer & Lubricant Feedstock:
Nova Industries
Website: https://novaind.in/