Hexyl laurate is a saturated short-to-medium-chain wax ester produced by esterification of lauric acid (C12:0) with hexyl alcohol (C6H13OH). It exemplifies low-viscosity emollients in the simple wax lipid series, with balanced chain asymmetry similar to decyl palmitate but overall lighter. Derived from coconut lauric fractions and petrochemical hexanol, it provides a dry-touch slip in formulations where rapid evaporation is favored over occlusion.
Chemical Structure
Hexyl laurate has the molecular formula C18H36O2 and a molecular weight of 284.48 g/mol. Its linear structure—CH3(CH2)10COO(CH2)5CH3—contains 16 rotatable bonds, a TPSA of 26.3 Ų, a LogP range of 6.03–7.92, and no hydrogen-bond donors. These physicochemical characteristics promote fluid lamellar phases with high mobility, supported by the short C6 alcohol tail.
Physical Properties
Hexyl laurate is a colorless oily liquid with a melting point of approximately -3.4°C and a boiling range of ~130–326°C. It has a density of 0.864 g/cm³ and a refractive index near 1.44. The compound is water-insoluble but miscible with ethanol, oils, and hydrocarbons. Its very low vapor pressure (0.001 Pa at 20°C) and mild oily odor make it suitable for fragrance-related applications.
Synthesis and Production
Hexyl laurate is synthesized through esterification of lauric acid with 1-hexanol, either via acid catalysis or enzymatic lipase processes (e.g., R. miehei). The product is typically vacuum-distilled to achieve purities greater than 98%. Sustainable sourcing from palm kernel fractions may align with RSPO standards, supporting responsible production practices.