Hydrogenated castor oil is a hard, brittle compound that is obtained by controlled hydrogenation of refined castor oil. The wax-like chemical is a high melting product that is practically odorless and tasteless. The chemical is insoluble in water and, therefore, it is not readily washed away. The compound is used in a plethora of applications including:
- Greases and Oils
Hydrogenated castor oil works quite well as a viscosity modifier due to its excellent resistance to moisture. The chemical also provides substantial improvement in grease and oil resistance. HCO is also used as a thickening agent in lithium grease and lithium complex grease. The compound is also used in multipurpose greases and metal-drawing lubricants.
- Plastics
Hydrogenated castor oil improves processing, dispersion and grease resistance of sheeted polyethylene. The chemical performs the role of a lubricant and release agent for PVC. The chemical is used in the preparation of various polyurethane coating formulas.
- Personal Care
Hydrogenated castor oil is used in the manufacturing of many personal care products. The chemical is used particularly as an emollient and thickening agent in ointments and deodorants, as well as hair care products and certain cosmetics. The compound is also used in lipsticks, deodorant and antiperspirant sticks, cosmetic creams.
- Pharmaceutics
Hydrogenated castor oil is used to provide stiffness to creams and emulsions. The chemical is used to prepare sustained-release tablet and capsule preparations to form a coat or a solid matrix. The compound is also used to lubricate the die walls of tablet presses.
- Other Applications
Hydrogenated castor oil is often used as an emulsifying agent in liquid soaps and detergents. This is done to enhance the stability of the liquid formula of soaps and detergents. The compound is also used as an effective processing agent in various textile manufacturing applications.
If you’re looking to buy high quality commercial grade hydrogenated castor oil, Bee Chems is your place to go. In addition to hydrogenated castor oil, the company also offers lithium hydroxide, lithium chloride, precipitated silica, Smecton clay, CO2 absorbents, and various others.
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