Soap-Based Thickeners
| Formula: | Varies (commonly metal salts of fatty acids, e.g., lithium stearate, calcium stearate, sodium stearate) |
| CAS Number: | Mixture (e.g., lithium stearate – 4485-12-5, calcium stearate – 1592-23-0) |
| EC Number (EINECS): | Mixture (depends on fatty acid & metal salt) |
| HS Code: | 34031990 |
| UN Number: | Not classified as hazardous for transport |
| IUPAC Name: | Metal salts of long-chain fatty acids (general) |
| Also Known As: | Soap Thickeners; Metal Soaps; Grease Soap Thickeners |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | Variable (depends on fatty acid chain & cation) |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | White to off-white powder or solid |
| Odor: | Mild fatty odor |
| Melting Point, °C: | 220–250 (varies with type) |
| Boiling Point, °C: | Decomposes before boiling |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | 1.02–1.10 |
| Flash Point, °C: | >200 |
| Purity, %: | ≥98 (depending on grade) |
| Grades Available: | Industrial, Lubricant, Technical |
| Packaging: | 25kg bags, 500kg jumbo bags |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
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Widely used as thickeners in lubricating greases (lithium, calcium, sodium soaps)
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Enhance viscosity and structural stability in lubricants
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Provide water resistance, shear stability, and temperature tolerance
Secondary Applications
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Used as release agents in plastics and rubber
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Thickening agent in paints and coatings
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Additive in cosmetics and personal care formulations (soaps, creams)
End Industries Served: Lubricants, Automotive, Machinery, Plastics, Rubber, Paints, Cosmetics, Personal Care
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Generally considered non-hazardous; may cause irritation in dust form
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
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H315: Causes skin irritation
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H319: Causes serious eye irritation
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H335: May cause respiratory irritation (dust form)
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
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P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection
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P261: Avoid inhalation of dust/fumes
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P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water, remove contact lenses if present
Storage Conditions
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Store in cool, dry, ventilated place
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Avoid moisture and contamination
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Keep packaging sealed when not in use
Transport Information
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ADR/RID: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IMDG: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IATA: Not classified as dangerous goods