Oleic Acid is an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid naturally found in many animal and vegetable fats and oils. It is widely used in the chemical, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Its chemical formula is C₁₈H₃₄O₂, and at room temperature, it appears as a colorless to pale yellow oily liquid.

Chemical Structure of Oleic Acid

Oleic acid consists of 18 carbon atoms with a single double bond located at the ninth carbon (cis-9-octadecenoic acid). This structure results in specific physical properties such as a low melting point and fluidity at room temperature.

Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₄O₂
Molecular Weight: 282.47 g/mol
Functional Group: Carboxylic acid
Double Bond Position: C9=C10 (cis configuration)

Properties of Oleic Acid

Colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature
Soluble in alcohol, ether, and most organic solvents
Non-volatile, odorless or slightly fatty odor
Melting Point: 13–14°C
Boiling Point: 360°C (decomposes)
Exhibits emulsifying and natural lubricating properties

Applications of Oleic Acid

Due to its unique properties, oleic acid is used across various industries:

✅ Cosmetic and Personal Care Industry: Used in creams, lotions, soaps, and emulsions
✅ Food Industry: As a permitted fatty additive and flavoring agent
✅ Pharmaceutical Industry: As a drug carrier or lipophilic solvent
✅ Chemical Industry: As a raw material for surfactants and esters
✅ Industrial Lubricants: In the formulation of metal and industrial lubricants
✅ Plastic and Rubber Manufacturing: Used as a plasticizer

Disadvantages of Oleic Acid

🔻 May cause skin irritation in some individuals when applied topically
🔻 Limited thermal stability at high temperatures
🔻 Excessive dietary intake may contribute to weight gain
🔻 Can solidify or precipitate at low temperatures

Advantages of Oleic Acid

✅ Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
✅ Non-toxic and safe for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications
✅ Widely available and cost-effective
✅ Strong emulsifying and softening properties
✅ Can be blended with other chemical compounds for advanced product formulations