Glyceryl Monocaprylate (GMC) CAS 26402-26-6

Glyceryl Monocaprylate – Non-Ionic Emulsifier and Emollient for Cosmetics, Food, and Pharmaceuticals

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 26402-26-6

• Molecular Formula: C₁₁H₂₂O₄

• Molecular Weight: 218.29 g/mol

• Synonyms: Glyceryl caprylate, Monocaprylin, GMC

• Appearance: Pale yellow to amber liquid or waxy solid

• HLB Value: ~5–6 (lipophilic, suitable for O/W and W/O emulsions)

• Solubility: Soluble in oils and organic solvents; dispersible in water

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
Glyceryl monocaprylate is produced by the controlled esterification of glycerin with caprylic acid (C₈:₀, a saturated medium-chain fatty acid). Under selective conditions and with appropriate catalysts, the reaction predominantly yields the monoester, where one of the three hydroxyl groups of glycerin is substituted with a caprylate chain. The synthesis can be represented as:
Glycerin + Caprylic Acid → Glyceryl Monocaprylate + H₂O
This structure provides a hydrophilic glycerol residue and a lipophilic caprylic acid chain, creating an effective amphiphilic compound.

Physicochemical Properties

• Amphiphilic: Balances hydrophilic and lipophilic properties, reducing interfacial tension in emulsion systems.

• Emulsifying activity: Stabilizes oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions, promoting homogeneity and stability.

• Solubility: Dispersible in oils and organic solvents; slightly soluble in water.

• Low viscosity: Imparts a light, non-greasy feel, making it suitable for skin care products.

• Good spreading: Enhances product application and skin coverage.

• Non-ionic: Compatible with a wide range of ingredients and pH levels.

• Thermal and oxidative stability: Stable under normal processing and storage conditions.

• Biodegradable and derived from renewable plant-based sources.

Applications

• Cosmetics and personal care: Used as a primary or co-emulsifier, emollient, and skin conditioning agent in O/W and W/O creams, lotions, serums, sunscreens, makeup removers, and hair care products. Provides stable, elegant textures with good spreadability, enhanced hydration, and a smooth, non-greasy feel.

• Pharmaceuticals: Employed as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and penetration enhancer in topical ointments, creams, and suppositories for uniform delivery of active ingredients.

• Food industry: Used as a food additive (E471) and emulsifier in margarines, spreads, sauces, dressings, and baked goods to improve texture, stability, and mouthfeel.

• Industrial: Applied as a lubricant, plasticizer, and dispersant in specialty chemical formulations.

Key Benefits

• Effective emulsification for both O/W and W/O systems.

• Provides emollient, skin-softening, and moisturizing properties.

• Light, non-greasy feel with good spreadability.

• Mild and non-irritating – suitable for sensitive skin and baby products.

• Thermal and oxidative stability – reliable over a wide temperature range.

• Biocompatible, biodegradable, and of natural origin.

• Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical ingredients.

• Acts as a co-emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer in complex formulations.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–5% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion stability, viscosity, and moisturizing effect. For optimal performance, dissolve in the oil phase at elevated temperatures (60–70°C) before emulsification. Can be combined with co-emulsifiers and thickeners for tailored rheology.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food and cosmetics at recommended concentrations.

• Low irritation potential; well-tolerated by skin and mucous membranes.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers and acids.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for acid value, saponification value, and emulsification performance to ensure consistent quality.