Methyl behenate is a fatty acid ester commonly found in various natural sources such as beeswax and vegetable oils. While not a household name, this compound plays a crucial role in everyday life due to its use in the production of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products. Methyl behenate serves as an emollient in skincare products, a lubricant in pharmaceutical formulations, and a coating agent in food applications. Its presence in these industries underscores its significance in enhancing the texture, stability, and overall quality of consumer goods, making it a valuable ingredient with wide-ranging applications.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Methyl behenate, a fatty acid methyl ester, finds various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a lubricant in various industrial processes due to its low viscosity and high stability. Additionally, it can be found as an ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products for its emollient and moisturizing properties.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, methyl behenate is utilized as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations. It acts as a binding agent in tablet manufacturing to ensure proper cohesion of ingredients. Furthermore, it can be used as a coating agent to improve the appearance and palatability of oral dosage forms.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Methyl behenate, a chemical compound with the formula CH3(CH2)20CO2CH3, is a white, waxy solid with a faint odor. It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.
With a molar mass of 340.64 g/mol and a density of 0.873 g/cm³, methyl behenate is similar in molar mass to triglycerides found in common food items like olive oil and coconut oil, but its density is lower than most food oils.
Methyl behenate has a melting point of around 39-42°C and a boiling point of approximately 330°C. These values are higher than those of many common food items such as butter (melting point around 32°C) and vegetable oils (boiling point below 300°C).
In terms of solubility in water, methyl behenate is considered insoluble. It also exhibits high viscosity, similar to fats commonly found in food items such as butter and solid vegetable shortenings.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Methyl behenate, also known as docosanoic acid methyl ester, is typically produced through the esterification of behenic acid with methanol. This chemical reaction typically occurs in the presence of a catalyst, such as sulfuric acid or methanesulfonic acid, under controlled conditions to yield high purity Methyl behenate.
Methyl behenate can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in providing fatty acid esters for various industrial applications. The compound is often available in various quantities, ranging from small laboratory-scale volumes to bulk quantities for commercial production. Transportation of Methyl behenate is typically done in sealed containers to prevent contamination and ensure safety during transit.
When procuring Methyl behenate, it is essential to consider factors such as purity, packaging, and handling guidelines provided by the supplier. Special attention should be given to storage and transportation conditions to maintain the integrity of the compound. Utilizing reputable suppliers and adhering to recommended best practices can help ensure the quality and reliability of Methyl behenate for intended applications.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Methyl behenate include the fact that it is combustible in nature and should be kept away from heat, flames, and other ignition sources. This compound may also cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon contact or inhalation. It is important to handle Methyl behenate with appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask, in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure risks.
Hazard statements for Methyl behenate include the potential for skin and eye irritation upon contact, as well as respiratory irritation if inhaled. This compound may also be harmful if swallowed and should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Additionally, Methyl behenate is combustible and may pose a fire hazard if exposed to heat or flames.
Precautionary statements for Methyl behenate include storing the compound in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat and flames. It is recommended to use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask, when handling Methyl behenate to prevent skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. In case of accidental exposure, seek medical attention immediately and provide the medical personnel with the Safety Data Sheet for proper treatment guidance.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for Methyl behenate focus on its applications in the fields of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. Studies may explore its role as an emollient in skincare products, its potential as a drug delivery agent, or its use as a biodegradable coating in packaging materials.
Additionally, researchers may investigate the synthesis of Methyl behenate from renewable sources to enhance sustainability and reduce reliance on petrochemicals. This could involve optimizing production methods, exploring alternative feedstocks, or developing new catalytic processes for its manufacture.
Furthermore, investigations into the physicochemical properties of Methyl behenate, such as its melting point, solubility, and surface activity, may shed light on its behavior in various formulations and environments. This knowledge could inform the development of novel applications and provide insights into its potential as a versatile compound with diverse industrial uses.
🧪 Related Compounds
One compound similar to Methyl behenate in terms of molecular structure is Methyl stearate. Methyl stearate is an ester formed by the condensation of stearic acid and methanol. Like Methyl behenate, Methyl stearate is a fatty acid methyl ester with a chain of 18 carbon atoms. This compound is commonly used in various industries, including the production of cosmetics, candles, and lubricants.
Another compound with a molecular structure similar to Methyl behenate is Methyl palmitate. Methyl palmitate is an ester derived from palmitic acid and methanol, consisting of a 16-carbon chain. Like Methyl behenate, Methyl palmitate is a fatty acid methyl ester commonly found in natural fats and oils. This compound is used in the manufacturing of soaps, detergents, and cosmetic products.
Ethyl behenate is a compound that bears resemblance to Methyl behenate in molecular structure. Ethyl behenate is an ester derived from behenic acid and ethanol, possessing a 22-carbon chain. Similar to Methyl behenate, Ethyl behenate is a fatty acid ester used in various applications, including food additives, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. This compound exhibits similar properties to Methyl behenate, such as stability and chemical reactivity.
