Glyceryl Monolaurate (GML) CAS 142-18-7

Glyceryl Monolaurate – Non-Ionic Emulsifier and Antimicrobial Agent for Cosmetics, Food, and Pharmaceuticals

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 142-18-7

• Molecular Formula: C₁₅H₃₀O₄

• Molecular Weight: 274.40 g/mol

• Synonyms: Monolaurin, GML, Lauric acid monoglyceride, 1-Lauroylglycerol

• Appearance: White to pale yellow waxy solid or powder

• HLB Value: ~5.2 (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

Overview
Glyceryl monolaurate (GML) is a non-ionic monoester produced by the partial esterification of glycerin with lauric acid. Its amphiphilic structure – featuring a hydrophilic glycerol head and a lipophilic lauryl chain – enables effective emulsification, reducing interfacial tension and stabilizing oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions. In addition to its emulsifying properties, GML exhibits significant antimicrobial activity against a wide range of Gram‑positive bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses, making it a multifunctional ingredient in cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical formulations.

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
GML is synthesized by the selective esterification of one hydroxyl group of glycerin with lauric acid, leaving two free hydroxyl groups to provide hydrophilicity. The reaction can be represented as:
Glycerin + Lauric Acid → Glyceryl Monolaurate + H₂O

Physicochemical Properties

• Amphiphilic: Balances hydrophilic and lipophilic properties for effective interfacial activity.

• Antimicrobial activity: Disrupts lipid membranes of microorganisms, providing broad-spectrum bacteriostatic and fungistatic effects.

• Emulsifying ability: Forms stable, fine emulsions with improved texture and consistency.

• Mildness: Non‑irritating and well‑tolerated by skin, suitable for sensitive skin and baby care.

• Thermal stability: Resistant to oxidation and hydrolysis under normal processing conditions.

• Biodegradable and derived from renewable plant-based sources.

Applications

• Cosmetics and personal care: Used as an emulsifier, co-emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer in O/W creams, lotions, serums, sunscreens, makeup removers, and hair care products. Provides moisturizing, skin conditioning, and antimicrobial preservation benefits.

• Food industry: Employed as a food additive (E471) and emulsifier in margarines, spreads, sauces, dressings, baked goods, and ice cream. Also valued for its antimicrobial activity as a natural preservative.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and excipient in topical ointments, creams, and suppositories. Its antimicrobial properties make it useful in wound care and oral care formulations.

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

Key Benefits

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

• Provides antimicrobial activity, reducing the need for synthetic preservatives.

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

• Moisturizing and skin conditioning – improves skin softness and hydration.

• Biocompatible, biodegradable, and of natural origin.

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

• Acts as a co-emulsifier and viscosity modifier in complex formulations.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 0.5–5% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion stability, viscosity, and antimicrobial efficacy. 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.