Aleuritic Acid — Shellac Derivative
9,10,16-trihydroxypalmitic acid obtained from shellac — the classic natural starting material for macrocyclic musk fragrances and specialty organic synthesis.
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Aleuritic Acid
Aleuritic acid — 9,10,16-trihydroxypalmitic acid — is the principal constituent acid of shellac, isolated by alkaline hydrolysis (saponification) of the resin. It is supplied as an off-white to cream powder or flakes, in technical and refined purities.
Its commercial importance rests on one remarkable role: it is the classical natural feedstock for macrocyclic musk synthesis — perfumery molecules of the civetone/ambrettolide family — making it a staple raw material for fragrance-chemical manufacturers. Beyond perfumery it serves as an intermediate in specialty organic synthesis, polymer and bioplastic research, and pharmaceutical chemistry.
Because it is made from shellac, supply-chain proximity matters: sourcing aleuritic acid from a lac-belt processor shortens the chain and keeps lot-to-lot consistency in one pair of hands. COA with hydroxyl and acid values accompanies every batch.
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical name | 9,10,16-Trihydroxypalmitic (trihydroxyhexadecanoic) acid |
| CAS number | 533-87-9 |
| Form | Off-white to cream powder / flakes |
| Melting range | Typically ~100–102 °C (grade-dependent) |
| Purity | Technical and refined grades — batch COA states assay |
| Acid value / Hydroxyl value | Stated on batch COA |
| Solubility | Soluble in hot water and alcohol; insoluble in cold water |
| Origin | India (derived from shellac) |
| Standard packing | 25 kg fibre drums / HDPE-lined bags |
| Minimum order | 25 kg |
| Shelf life | 24 months in cool, dry storage |
Values shown are typical ranges; a batch-specific COA accompanies every shipment. HS code: 2918 19 (carboxylic acids with additional oxygen function).
Where Aleuritic Acid Is Used
Fragrance & Perfumery
The classical starting material for macrocyclic musks (civetone, ambrettolide family) used in fine fragrance.
Specialty Synthesis
A versatile trihydroxy C16 building block for esters, lactones and custom organic synthesis.
Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Intermediate and research reagent in medicinal chemistry programmes.
Polymers & Materials R&D
Bio-based monomer candidate in polyester and bioplastic research.
Buy Aleuritic Acid in Bulk
MOQ from 25 kg · Full export documentation · FOB / CFR / CIF / DDP from Kolkata & Mumbai · Quotes within 24 hours.