Common Synonyms for Glyceryl Oleate
The most prominent and frequently used alternative name for glyceryl oleate is glycerol monooleate. This name is highly descriptive, indicating that it is a monoester of glycerol and oleic acid. The abbreviation GMO is also a common shorthand, though it should not be confused with the term 'genetically modified organism'. Another widely recognized synonym, particularly in pharmaceutical contexts, is monoolein. These names are often used interchangeably depending on the industry or specific chemical context.
Additional and Technical Names
Beyond the most common aliases, several other technical and less-frequently used names can be encountered. These include:
- Glycerin 1-monooleate: A more specific chemical name that indicates the position of the oleic acid ester linkage on the glycerol molecule.
- 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-, monoester with 1,2,3-propanetriol: This is a very specific, IUPAC-style chemical name that details the constituent parts and their chemical arrangement.
- Glyceryl 1-oleate: Another specific name referring to the same molecule, sometimes seen in chemical literature.
- Olein, 1-mono-: A less formal, but still recognizable, technical alias.
Chemical Composition and Origin
Glyceryl oleate is a monoester produced by combining naturally derived oleic acid with glycerin. Oleic acid is an unsaturated fatty acid abundant in vegetable and animal fats, while glycerin is a simple polyol compound. The reaction results in an amphiphilic lipid, meaning it has both a water-loving (hydrophilic) head and a fat-loving (lipophilic) tail, which gives it its emulsifying properties.
Versatile Applications in Industry
Glyceryl oleate is valued for its function as an emulsifier, emollient, and stabilizer in various products. Its low hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value makes it an excellent water-in-oil emulsifier, allowing it to create stable mixtures of aqueous and oil-based substances.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
In the cosmetic industry, glyceryl oleate is widely used in creams, lotions, shampoos, and makeup. Its benefits include:
- Emulsifying Agent: Helps blend oil and water phases to create stable, uniform product consistency.
- Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin, providing long-lasting hydration.
- Fragrance: Can also function as a perfuming agent.
Food and Pharmaceutical
Glyceryl oleate is a component of the normal human diet and is part of animal fats and vegetable oils. Its uses in these fields include:
- Food Additive: Used as an ingredient in many food products.
- Lubricant: Acts as a lubricant in various types of machinery used for food production.
- Pharmaceutical Carrier: Employed in drug delivery systems, particularly in the synthesis of cubosomes.
Comparison of Glyceryl Oleate and Its Components
To better understand glyceryl oleate, it is helpful to compare it to its constituent parts: glycerol and oleic acid.
| Feature | Glyceryl Oleate (Monoolein) | Oleic Acid | Glycerol (Glycerin) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classification | Monoglyceride (Ester) | Monounsaturated Fatty Acid | Polyol (Alcohol) |
| Function | Emulsifier, Emollient | Sourcing for esters | Humectant, Solvent |
| Solubility in Water | Insoluble (Amphiphilic) | Insoluble | Soluble |
| State (Room Temp) | Clear to yellow liquid | Colorless to yellowish oil | Clear, colorless, viscous liquid |
| Role in Products | Stabilizer, Skin Conditioner | Ingredient for production | Moisturizer, Solvent |
Production and Safety
Commercial glyceryl oleate is typically produced via the esterification of glycerin and oleic acid, often with a catalyst. The final product is a mixture of monoglycerides, diglycerides, and triglycerides. Because of its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and low toxicity, glyceryl oleate is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by regulatory bodies like the FDA, making it suitable for food contact and pharmaceutical use. A safety assessment of monoglyceryl monoesters also confirms their safe use in cosmetics.
Conclusion
In summary, the most common another name for glyceryl oleate is glycerol monooleate, often abbreviated as GMO or simply called monoolein. This multi-talented chemical compound is a vital emulsifier and emollient, with its name varying depending on the industry and specific application. Its natural origins, low toxicity, and effectiveness in blending and stabilizing different substances have cemented its importance across the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical sectors. Understanding its various synonyms is key to navigating the chemical and product ingredient landscape effectively.
For further details on cosmetic ingredients, see the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR).
Uses of Glyceryl Oleate
Glyceryl oleate is a multi-functional ingredient used across several industries due to its emulsifying, stabilizing, and conditioning properties.
In Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
- Emulsifying Agent: Helps to blend oil and water components in creams, lotions, and makeup, ensuring a consistent texture and stability over time.
- Emollient: Provides moisturizing and skin-softening benefits, leaving a smooth feel on the skin.
- Hair Care: Functions as a lipid component in hair products, helping to condition and smooth hair.
- Fragrance Component: Can be used as a fragrant ingredient.
In Food Products
- Food Additive: Incorporated into various food items as an emulsifier and stabilizer.
- Flavoring Agent: Can be used as a flavoring agent in chewing gums.
In Pharmaceuticals and Drug Delivery
- Emulsifier: Utilized as a pharmaceutical emulsifier for various formulations.
- Permeation Enhancer: Helps to enhance the absorption of other pharmaceutical ingredients.
- Drug Delivery Systems: Serves as a key component in advanced drug delivery systems like cubosomes.
In Other Industrial Applications
- Lubricant: Used as a base oil and additive in certain lubricants.
- Textiles: Acts as a lubricant in synthetic fiber spin finishes.
- Plastics: Employed as a lubricant and antistatic agent in the manufacture of PVC and polyethylene films.
- Pesticides: Used as a carrier or inert material for active substances.
- Fuels: Functions as a fuel additive.
Properties of Glyceryl Oleate
- Chemical Formula: $C{21}H{40}O_4$
- Appearance: A clear, amber, or pale yellow liquid.
- Solubility: Insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like hot alcohol, chloroform, and ether.
- Biodegradability: Classified as readily biodegradable.
- Amphiphilic Nature: Possesses both hydrophilic and lipophilic properties due to its chemical structure.
Safety Information
- Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS): Glyceryl oleate is classified as safe for use in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals due to its minimal toxicity and biocompatibility.
- Safety Assessments: Regulatory reviews have confirmed its safety for cosmetic applications at current use concentrations.
- Low Toxicity: Studies show minimal toxicity, making it a safe choice for personal care and consumption.
How It's Made
Glyceryl oleate is typically manufactured by a process called esterification, where glycerin reacts with oleic acid. The process involves heating the two components in the presence of a catalyst. The resulting product is a mixture of mono-, di-, and triglycerides, with the ratio dependent on the reaction conditions. The finished product, often a commercial monoglyceride, contains a specified percentage of the monoglyceride, along with other related glyceride compounds.
Summary of Key Information
| Attribute | Glyceryl Oleate | Glycerol Monooleate | Monoolein |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synonym | Primary Name | Most Common Alternative | Common Technical Name |
| Chemical Type | Monoglyceride | Monoglyceride | Monoglyceride |
| Common Use | Cosmetics, Food | Cosmetics, Food | Pharmaceuticals, Drug Delivery |
| Abbreviation | N/A | GMO | MO |
Conclusion
Identifying the correct name for a chemical compound like glyceryl oleate is critical for product development, safety, and regulatory compliance. As shown, its most common alternative name is glycerol monooleate, which can also be called monoolein, especially in the context of pharmaceuticals and drug delivery. These names all refer to the same versatile lipid, widely used as an emulsifier, emollient, and stabilizer in diverse products ranging from skin creams to food additives. Its natural origin, biodegradability, and safety profile make it a trusted and valuable ingredient across many industries. By recognizing these various synonyms, professionals can ensure clarity and accuracy in their work and research. The low toxicity and high effectiveness of glyceryl oleate continue to make it an essential component in modern formulations.
Final Thoughts
The multiple names for glyceryl oleate can seem confusing at first, but understanding the context in which they are used clarifies their meaning. Whether labeled glyceryl oleate, glycerol monooleate, or monoolein, this compound remains a crucial, naturally-derived ingredient. Its widespread application underscores its importance and versatility. Consumers and formulators alike can benefit from knowing these names to better understand product labels and ingredient lists.
The Role of Glycerides
Glyceryl oleate is part of a broader class of compounds called glycerides, which are esters of glycerol. These can be monoglycerides (like glyceryl oleate), diglycerides, or triglycerides, depending on how many fatty acids are attached to the glycerol backbone. The specific properties of each glyceride vary based on the fatty acids involved and the number of them attached. This explains why manufacturers may use different types of glycerides to achieve specific effects in their products.
Safety and Sourcing
As a food and cosmetic ingredient, the sourcing of glyceryl oleate is important. It is derived from natural oils and fats, making it a naturally-occurring compound. The safety of monoglyceryl monoesters has been reviewed and affirmed by scientific bodies. This ensures that products containing glyceryl oleate are safe for use and consumption under normal conditions. Sourcing from natural origins also aligns with the trend toward clean and natural ingredient lists, making it a popular choice for formulators.
