| Identity | INCI name | Cetearyl Alcohol | Review the current specification and product label |
| Identity | CAS Registry Number | 67762-27-0 | Match the CAS number on the SDS, specification, and certificate of analysis |
| Composition | Primary chemical composition | A solid fatty alcohol blend consisting mainly of cetyl alcohol (C16) and stearyl alcohol (C18) | Request the C16/C18 distribution or chromatographic composition profile |
| Composition | C16 component | Cetyl alcohol, also called hexadecan-1-ol; molecular formula C16H34O; relative molecular mass approximately 242.44 g/mol | Confirm by GC or an equivalent validated fatty-alcohol analysis |
| Composition | C18 component | Stearyl alcohol, also called octadecan-1-ol; molecular formula C18H38O; relative molecular mass approximately 270.50 g/mol | Confirm by GC or an equivalent validated fatty-alcohol analysis |
| Purity | Assay target for a “99% pure” grade | A documented assay of ≥99.0% total specified fatty alcohols, with the analytical method clearly stated | Check whether the result means total fatty alcohols, C16+C18 only, or a broader purity calculation |
| Physical form | Appearance at room temperature | White to off-white waxy solid, flakes, pastilles, beads, or pellets | Compare a retained sample with the approved appearance standard |
| Physical properties | Melting or congealing range | Common commercial ranges are approximately 48–56°C; the exact range depends on the C16/C18 ratio and processing history | Require the supplier’s method and batch result rather than relying on a generic value |
| Solubility | Water solubility | Practically insoluble or dispersible only to a limited extent in water | Evaluate dispersion behavior in the intended formulation |
| Function | Cosmetic and formulation role | Used primarily as a consistency agent, emollient, co-emulsifier, viscosity modifier, and stabilizing fatty alcohol | Verify performance in the finished product, especially viscosity and emulsion stability |
| Quality control | Acid value | Should be controlled to a low, documented specification appropriate to the grade; no universal value applies to every commercial product | Compare the batch result with the supplier’s approved limit and test method |
| Quality control | Hydroxyl value | A useful identity and functionality parameter for fatty alcohol material; acceptance limits must be grade-specific | Request the numerical limit, analytical method, and recent batch data |
| Contaminant control | Water, ash, and trace metals | Limits should be stated in the product specification and controlled according to the intended application | Review the certificate of analysis and, where relevant, independent laboratory results |
| Documentation | Required technical documents | Current specification, batch certificate of analysis, SDS, allergen statement, residual-solvent statement, and regulatory status statement | Confirm document revision dates, lot number, manufacturing date, and consistency across documents |
| Supplier qualification | Evidence for selecting a high-purity supplier | Lot traceability, change-control procedure, complaint handling, defined retest period, stable specifications, and documented quality-system controls | Perform a document review, sample approval, and risk-based supplier audit |
| Packaging and storage | Handling requirements | Store tightly closed in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from excessive heat, moisture, and contamination | Inspect packaging integrity and transport conditions upon receipt |