Uses
Ricinoleic acid, formally called 12-hydroxy-9-cis-octadecenoic acid is a fatty acid. It is an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid and a hydroxy acid. It is a major component of the seed oil obtained from mature Castor plant (Ricinus communis L., Euphorbiaceae) seeds or in sclerotium of ergot (Claviceps purpurea Tul., Clavicipitaceae). About 90% of the fatty acid content in castor oil is the triglyceride formed from ricinoleic acid.
Definition
ChEBI: Ricinoleic Acid methyl ester is an aliphatic alcohol.
Application
Methyl Ricinoleate has found limited use in perfumery as a solvent for certain types of Oakmoss extract (mainly for Ozrkmoss concrete as an emollient or “plasticizer”) and occasionally as part of the “fatty-floral” notes in Jasmin, Gardenia, Tuberose and other herbaceous oily florals.
Production Methods
Methyl Ricinoleate is produced, and the acid is obtained from Castor oil by saponification. The Methylester is subsequently obtained by treatment with Methanol and a catalyst or dehydrating agent.
Flammability and Explosibility
Not classified
