Lauric acid

Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid with twelve carbon atoms. It is used as a raw material in cosmetic formulation and cleansing systems, including saponification processes.

Its behaviour depends on the proportion used, the other ingredients and the degree of neutralisation. The grade specification includes a titre of 42 to 45 °C and a saponification value of 279 to 283 mg KOH/g. These ranges describe the specification, rather than results for a particular batch.

Identification: INCI Lauric Acid; CAS 143-07-7; CE/EINECS 205-582-1.

Specification data: acid value 278-282 mg KOH/g; saponification value 279-283 mg KOH/g. The ranges do not represent results for a particular batch.

Planning its use: first define the cosmetic system and incorporation process. If used in neutralisation or saponification, calculate the base required for all the raw materials and check the pH of the final product. The specification does not establish a universal cosmetic dosage.

Development and validation: make a pilot batch and assess stability, packaging compatibility and suitability for the intended use. Do not add directly to a finished cosmetic without reformulating and validating it.

What it contributes to the formula: it is a free fatty acid. Its function depends on how it is incorporated and whether it is neutralised during the process. It is not equivalent to a ready-made soap or a cleansing base that only needs diluting.

Interpreting the technical data: the acid value expresses the amount of KOH needed to neutralise free acids. The saponification value is another specification parameter; it must not be mistaken for an amount of alkali ready to weigh out without taking into account the concentration of the base and the rest of the formula.

Processing temperature: the safety data sheet gives a melting point of 42-44 °C; the specified solidification titre is 42-45 °C. These data characterise the raw material and do not constitute a universal manufacturing temperature. The process must be adapted to all the ingredients.

Compatibility and testing: keep separate from oxidising agents. Combining it with a base must only take place within a controlled neutralisation process. Before scaling up, assess homogeneity, texture changes, pH using a defined method, and stability. Measuring pH alone does not replace checking a soap for free alkali.