Hey Where to Find High Quality Lithium 12-Hydroxystearate

Introduction to Lithium 12-Hydroxystearate

Lithium 12-hydroxystearate is a lithium soap classified as a fatty acid salt, specifically the lithium salt of 12-hydroxystearic acid. This compound is renowned for its favorable properties and is commonly used as a thickener in lubricating greases. Its unique chemical composition and physical attributes make it an indispensable component in various industries.

Description of Lithium 12-Hydroxystearate

Li 12-HSA boasts a specific chemical formula: C18H35LiO3. With a CAS number of 7620-77-1 and an EINECS number of 231-536-5, this compound typically appears as a white solid or off-white powder that emits a characteristic odor. Its molecular weight is approximately 306.41 g/mol, making it a robust and reliable component in various formulations.

Understanding the specifications of of Li 12-HSA is crucial for identifying high-quality products. Here are some key parameters to consider:

• Melting Point: Ranges from 200 °C to about 216–231 °C at atmospheric pressure. This indicates its stability and suitability for high-temperature applications.
• Solubility: Lithium 12-hydroxystearate exhibits very low solubility in water (≤0.046 mg/L at 20 °C), which is beneficial for its use in grease formulations.
• Oxidation Stability: This compound exhibits high oxidation stability, making it suitable for use in various applications, including automotive and industrial greases.
• Dropping Point: Lithium 12-hydroxystearate can withstand temperatures up to approximately 200 °C before melting, further confirming its robustness and reliability.

Due to its favorable properties, Li 12-HSA is primarily used in the following applications:

• Lubricating Greases: Serving as a thickener in greases used for motor vehicles, aircraft, and heavy machinery, this compound provides excellent mechanical stability and water resistance.
• Surfactants and Emulsifiers: It is also employed in the formulation of detergents and emulsifiers, enhancing their stability and effectiveness.
• Polymer Additives: Li 12-HSA acts as a stabilizer for various polymer compositions, such as polyethylene oxide ethers, improving their durability and performance.

The synthesis of Li 12-HSA involves the reaction of lithium hydroxide with 12-hydroxystearic acid in an aqueous medium. This process typically requires heating and vigorous stirring to ensure proper mixing and formation of the lithium soap. Due to its challenging filtration properties, the resulting lithium soap is usually collected by spray drying, yielding a fine powder suitable for various applications.

Safety and Handling

Lithium Li 12-HSA is generally considered safe for use in industrial applications. It does not exhibit significant skin or eye irritation properties. However, standard precautions should be taken to avoid inhalation or prolonged skin contact to ensure the safety of personnel handling this compound.

In conclusion, Li 12-HSA is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in various industries. By understanding its chemical composition, specifications, and applications, you can identify high-quality products that meet your specific needs. Always ensure to take the necessary safety precautions when handling this compound to protect yourself and your team.

References

1. Silva, L.S.; Lima, L.C.B.; Silva, F.C.; Matos, J.M.E.; Santos, M.R.M.C.; Santos Júnior, L.S.; Sousa, K.S.; da Silva Filho, E.C. Dye anionic sorption in aqueous solution onto a cellulose surface chemically modified with aminoethanethiol. Chem. Eng. J. 2013, 218, 89–98. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
2. CMI, https://www.echemi.com/produce/pr22120151498-lithium-12-hydroxystearate.html