Glycerol Tristearate
C₅₇H₁₁₀O₆ | CAS: 555-43-1 | HS: 29157090
Product Description
Glycerol Tristearate (Tristearin, Glyceryl Tristearate) is a fully saturated triglyceride formed by esterification of glycerol with three stearic acid molecules. Unlike Glycerol Monostearate (GMS), it has no free hydroxyl groups and is therefore hydrophobic, non-emulsifying, and thermally stable up to its decomposition point. Its primary applications are as a lubricant and mould-release agent in plastics and rubber processing — providing excellent internal lubrication and surface slip in PVC, polyolefins, and engineering plastics. In cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, it forms the crystalline fat base in suppositories, lipsticks, and hard fat formulations. MITCHEM supplies technical and cosmetic grades.
Applications by Industry
Internal lubricant and mould release agent for PVC, polyolefins, and engineering plastics; reduces mould sticking, improves surface gloss, and reduces friction between polymer chains during melt processing.
Component of hard fat (Witepsol-type) bases for suppositories and pessaries; raises the melting point of fat bases and adjusts body-temperature melt profiles for controlled drug release.
Provides crystalline structure and hardness in lipsticks, lip balms, and colour cosmetic sticks; used with softer waxes and emollients to achieve desired texture and payoff.
Used as a bloom inhibitor and fat extender in chocolate and confectionery coatings; the fully saturated structure resists oxidative rancidity and thermal bloom under warm storage conditions.