Fatty alcohol is A class of organic compounds with hydroxyl groups attached to long fatty chains, exhibiting amphiphilic (water-oil-lipophilic) properties. One end of the molecule is hydrophilic (-OH), while the other end is lipophilic (carbon chain), making them important raw materials for the manufacture of detergents, surfactants, cosmetics (such as moisturizers and shampoos), and pharmaceuticals . They can be derived from natural oils or petroleum, and commonly include high carbon number alcohols such as C12-18.

Basic characteristics

· Structure : The general formula is R-OH, where R is an aliphatic hydrocarbon group, usually containing 8-22 carbon atoms, and mostly an even number.

· Physical properties : Low carbon number alcohols (such as ethanol) are liquids, while higher alcohols (such as stearyl alcohol) are waxy solids, colorless or slightly yellow, with a special odor.

· Amphiphilic : The coexistence of long carbon chains (hydrophobic) and hydroxyl groups (hydrophilic) enables it to interact with water and oil, making it an ideal raw material for preparing surfactants. 

source

· Natural fatty alcohols : extracted from natural oils such as coconut oil, palm oil, and tallow, and produced through hydrolysis, reduction, and other steps, are the preferred choice under the "green" trend.

· Synthetic fatty alcohols : prepared from petrochemical products (such as ethylene) via carbonyl synthesis, Ziegler process, and other methods. 

Main uses

· Surfactants are the core raw materials for the production of detergents (such as sodium lauryl sulfate), emulsifiers, wetting agents, foaming agents, etc.

· Cosmetics : Increases product viscosity, provides lubrication and smoothness, and is used in lotions, conditioners, lipsticks, etc.

· Other industries : It can be used as a plastic additive (plasticizer), lubricant additive, antistatic agent for textiles, defoamer, etc.