Stearic acid, also known as octadecanoic acid, is a common saturated fatty acid found in animal and vegetable oils.With the chemical formula C18H36O2 , it is usually a white, waxy solid with a faint odor. It is widely used as an emulsifier, thickener, lubricant, and stabilizer, and has important applications in cosmetics (snow cream, cold cream), soap, candles, plastics, rubber, pharmaceuticals, and the food industry (such as in the production of stearates). 

Basic properties 

Chemical formula :C18H36O2

Appearance : White waxy solid or slightly yellow waxy solid

Smell : Slightly buttery

Solubility : Slightly soluble in water, soluble in ethanol and acetone, readily soluble in organic solvents such as ether, chloroform, and benzene.

Source : It is present in almost all oils and fats, but is high in animal fats (such as butter) and cocoa butter. 

Main uses

· In daily chemical products : used as emulsifiers and thickeners in cosmetics (such as snow cream and cold cream), and as a base for soap.

· Plastics and rubber : PVC stabilizers, lubricants, release agents, and rubber vulcanization aids.

· Pharmaceuticals : Preparation of ointments, suppositories, and excipients for tablets.

· Food : Lubricants, defoamers, and food additives (glyceryl stearate).

· Industrial applications : candles (to increase hardness), crayons, polishing agents, textile auxiliaries, etc.