Isopropyl Myristate

What is Isopropyl Myristate?

Isopropyl Myristate Molecular Formula: C₁₇H₃₄O₂

Molecular Weight: 270.5 g/mol

Chemical Name: Isopropyl Tetradecanoate

CAS Number: 110-27-5

It is a moisturizing chemical obtained from the esterification reaction of myristic acid with isopropyl alcohol. It is one of the most important compounds among chemicals that penetrate the skin very quickly.

It is an indispensable part of moisturizing creams in the cosmetics industry. It is an ester derivative chemical substance. It has fatty acid properties.

In some formulations, it has an emulsifier and dispersant effect.

It is briefly called IPM.

Other Names are as Follows;

• Isopropyl Myristate
• Methylethyl Tetradecanoate
• Myristic acid isopropyl ester
• Isopropyl Tetradecanoic acid
• IPM
• Tetradecanoic acid isopropyl
• Ester

How is it Produced?

Isopropyl Myristate production is obtained by the esterification reaction of myristic acid obtained from coconut and isopropyl alcohol. Before the heating process begins, 98% sulfuric acid is added. After this process, it is heated for a long time.

After the production process, isopropyl alcohol is recovered and then neutralized with Sodium Carbonate. The next step in production is the distillation of isopropyl alcohol and water. Finally, IPM is purified.

What are the Physical and Chemical Properties of Isopropyl Myristate?

Physically, it appears as a colorless and odorless oily liquid.

The melting point is around 3.0 °C.

Boiling Point: 156-160 °C.

Density at 20 °C is around 0.85 g/cm³ . This value stands out as a liquid with low viscosity.

In terms of solubility, it dissolves in ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, acetone, ethyl alcohol, and mineral oils. However, it dissolves in mono propylene glycol and Glycerin.

What are the Application Areas of Isopropyl Myristate?

• Chemical substances used in moisturizer manufacturing are known as isopropyl palmitate and isopropyl myristate. High-segment cosmetic products are obtained with these chemical compounds.
• It is used as a solvent in skin lubricants containing lanolin.
• It is used as a dispersing agent.
• Ointments are oily substances. Since this compound has fatty acid properties, it is used in the manufacture of ointments, which are pharmaceutical substances.
• Modified polyether urethane coatings are used to protect medical devices integrated into the human body after surgery.
• In the medical field, studies are being conducted on the diffusion of testosterone hormone by modifying it into gel form. As a result of this study, it was determined that the diffusion effect of IPM is positive.
• IPM is used as an alternative to chemicals produced to kill head lice on the human head. This is because this raw material is non-toxic compared to old-method chemical substances.
• IPM can be used alone or together with glyceryl monostearate, which is among the nonionic surfactants, in hair curling and straightening formulas.
• Baby skin is sensitive skin. Some baby skin experiences peeling in the 3-5 month range. To prevent this, moisturizing, skin-protective, and caring baby creams containing zinc stearate, benzyl salicylate, and magnesium sulfate are produced. Isopropyl myristate is used in the manufacture of these creams.

What are the Factors Affecting Prices?

The price of isopropyl myristate is directly dependent on the prices of the raw materials used in its production. As the prices of coconut and isopropyl alcohol increase, the price of this chemical substance will increase.

Isopropyl myristate distributor companies keep prices under control. If distributor stocks decrease, prices will rise.

The pricing policies of companies that sell isopropyl myristate are generally related to stocks. As stocks increase, prices will decrease in the short term.

Recently, with the increase in the production of quality cosmetic products, isopropyl myristate prices have increased.