Sodium Ricinolate (CAS 5323-95-5)

Sodium Ricinolate, with the CAS number 5323-95-5, is the sodium salt of ricinoleic acid, a hydroxylated fatty acid derived from castor oil. This compound is unique because it contains a hydroxyl group on the twelfth carbon of its fatty acid chain, which significantly influences its chemical behavior and solubility. The presence of both the carboxylate group, ionically bonded to sodium, and the hydroxyl group makes Sodium Ricinolate an amphiphilic molecule, capable of interacting with both polar and non-polar substances. This dual solubility is a critical feature utilized in various research applications, particularly in the study of surfactant and emulsifying properties. Sodium Ricinolate is extensively used in research focused on the creation and stabilization of emulsions and foams, where it acts to lower the surface tension between the oil and water phases, facilitating the mixing of immiscible liquids. Additionally, the compound′s ability to form stable micelles and liposomes in aqueous solutions makes it valuable for studying encapsulation processes, which are important for protecting and delivering sensitive molecules in biochemical studies. In environmental science, Sodium Ricinolate is explored for its potential use in biodegradable detergents and cleaners, given its effectiveness in solubilizing oils and greases while being derived from a renewable resource. This compound′s distinct structure and properties make it a subject of interest in both fundamental and applied research, contributing to advancements in green chemistry and industrial applications.