Glyceryl Monostearate Self-Emulsifying

CAS Number:

Multiple depending on composition, common numbers include 85251-77-0, 11099-07-3, or 593-29-3

Chemical Name: 

Glyceryl Monostearate Self-Emulsifying. Also known as Glyceryl Stearate SE, Glycerol Monostearate SE

Molecular Formula:

Complex mixture, often expressed as C100H188O22 for commercial grades .

Molecular Weight:

Varies by composition, approximately 1704.7 g/mol for the complete mixture .

Common Form:

White to off-white flakes or fine powder

Uses:

GMS SE is a non-ionic emulsifier widely used in cosmetics, personal care, food, and pharmaceutical applications. It is characterized by its ability to form stable emulsions without the need for additional emulsifiers .

Primary Applications:

· Cosmetics & Personal Care: The largest application. Used as a primary or auxiliary emulsifier in creams (moisturizers, sunscreens, foundation creams), lotions, facial cleansers, hair conditioners, shampoos, and shaving products. It provides rich texture and smooth skin feel .

· Food Industry: Used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in bakery products (cakes, bread) to prevent staling, in margarine, ice cream (to improve texture and prevent ice crystal formation), and frozen desserts .

· Pharmaceuticals: Used as an auxiliary agent in topical creams and ointments to improve stability and active ingredient distribution .

· Plastics Industry: Used as an antistatic additive and plasticizer in some plastics such as PVC and PP .

What does GMS SE (Glyceryl Monostearate Self-Emulsifying)  do in a formulation?

• Primary/Auxiliary Emulsifier (O/W): Its primary function. It reduces interfacial tension between oil and water, allowing the formation of stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. The "self-emulsifying" version contains small amounts of potassium or sodium soap (potassium/sodium stearate) which enhances its ability to emulsify directly in water
• Emulsion Stabilizer: Prevents emulsion separation (oil or water coalescence) over time .
• Bodying Agent: Increases the viscosity of preparations, giving them a rich, dense consistency.
• Opacifier: Gives the product an opaque white appearance, used in shampoos and liquid detergents.
• Emollient: Leaves a smooth layer on the skin, improving post-application sensation.
• Antistatic Agent: In plastic applications, helps reduce static charge accumulation .

Safety Profile:

· Hazard Classification: Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) as a food additive by the FDA when used according to good practices . Not classified as hazardous under GHS in normal uses.

· Skin/Eye Contact: May cause mild mechanical irritation in powder form. In finished formulations, considered non-irritating and non-toxic to skin .

· Inhalation: Powder dust may irritate the respiratory tract. Avoid dust inhalation during manufacturing.

· Ingestion: Considered safe with very low toxicity upon ingestion (high LD50) .

· Environmental Impact: Biodegradable and environmentally friendly, especially plant-derived grades .

· Required PPE: Safety glasses and dust mask when handling raw powder in manufacturing or laboratory settings. No special requirements for end consumers.

· Storage and Handling Note: Store in a cool, dry place (below 25-30°C) away from moisture and direct sunlight, as the material is hygroscopic and may cake . Shelf life up to two years under proper conditions.

Technical profile: