Glyceryl Monooleate (GMO) CAS 111-03-5

Glyceryl Monooleate – Versatile Non-Ionic Emulsifier for Cosmetics, Food, and Pharmaceuticals

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 111-03-5

• Molecular Formula: C₂₁H₄₀O₄

• Molecular Weight: 356.54 g/mol

• Synonyms: Monolein, Glyceryl oleate, GMO, 9-Octadecenoic acid, monoester with glycerol

• Appearance: Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid or waxy solid

• HLB Value: ~3.8 (lipophilic, suitable for W/O and O/W emulsions)

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

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

Overview
Glyceryl monooleate (GMO) is a non-ionic monoester produced by the partial esterification of glycerol with oleic acid. Its amphiphilic structure – featuring a lipophilic oleic acid chain and free hydroxyl groups from glycerol – provides excellent emulsifying, solubilizing, and surface-active properties. This biocompatible, mild, and biodegradable surfactant is widely used in cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical formulations.

Key Properties

• Non-ionic – compatible with a wide range of ingredients and pH levels.

• Amphiphilic – reduces interfacial tension, stabilizing both O/W and W/O emulsions.

• Good skin compatibility and mildness – suitable for sensitive skin.

• Biocompatible and low toxicity – safe for topical and oral applications.

• Biodegradable and derived from renewable plant-based sources (glycerol and oleic acid).

• Acts as an emulsifier, solubilizer, wetting agent, lubricant, and stabilizer.

Applications

• Cosmetics and personal care: Used as an emulsifier and skin conditioner in creams, lotions, moisturizers, sunscreens, makeup removers, and hair care products. Provides smooth, non-greasy textures and improves skin feel.

• Food industry: Employed as a food additive (E471) and emulsifier in sauces, dressings, margarines, spreads, bakery products, and confectionery. Improves texture, stability, and mouthfeel.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and absorption enhancer in topical ointments, creams, suppositories, and oral formulations.

• Industrial: Applied as a lubricant, dispersant, and anti-foaming agent in various industrial applications.

Key Benefits

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

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

• Biocompatible, biodegradable, and of natural origin.

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

• Provides stable, elegant textures with good spreadability.

• Acts as a solubilizer for oils, fragrances, and active ingredients.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–5% of the formulation, depending on the desired emulsion type and stability. 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.