1-Hexadecanol , CAS 36653-82-4 and EC 253-149-0 , is the linear C16 fatty alcohol commonly called cetyl alcohol . Its molecular formula is C16H34O and molecular weight is 242.44 g/mol. Commercial cetyl alcohol may contain a defined distribution of neighboring fatty alcohols rather than absolute single-component C16 material. Buyers should specify C16 content, total fatty alcohols, hydroxyl value, acid value, iodine value, color, form and application-grade documentation.
1-Hexadecanol CAS 36653-82-4
- CAS: 36653-82-4
- Synonyms: 1-Hexadecanol, Cetyl Alcohol, Hexadecan-1-ol, C16 Fatty Alcohol, Palmityl Alcohol
- Einecs: 253-149-0
- Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₃₄O
- Grade: Confirm C16 composition, hydroxyl and acid values, color, physical form and intended-use documents against the current TDS and COA; no cosmetic or other end-use grade is assumed.
- Package: State required quantity, physical form and destination; confirm the current bag or container, liner, net weight, temperature handling and transport requirements before quotation.
Product Description
Identity and physicochemical profile
| Item | Technical guidance |
|---|---|
| Product identity | 1-Hexadecanol; cetyl alcohol; C16 fatty alcohol |
| CAS / EC | 36653-82-4 / 253-149-0 |
| Formula / molecular weight | C₁₆H₃₄O / 242.44 g/mol |
| Commercial composition | C16 content and neighboring fatty-alcohol distribution depend on the offered grade |
| Key purchase controls | C16 and total fatty alcohols, hydroxyl value, acid value, iodine value, saponification value, water, color and melting behavior |
| Physical forms | Flakes, pastilles or other forms selected for melting, dosing, dust and packaging needs |
Applications and grade selection
1-Hexadecanol is used as a structuring agent, consistency modifier, emollient component, opacifier and co-emulsifier in cosmetic, personal-care and industrial formulations. Performance depends on fatty-alcohol distribution, phase behavior, emulsifier system and processing temperature.
- Match C16 distribution, hydroxyl value, color and melting behavior to the approved formula.
- Compare emulsion stability, viscosity, sensory profile, cooling curve and appearance in a pilot batch.
- Define origin, sustainability, cosmetic or regulatory documents when required by the destination market.
For a related long-chain fatty alcohol raw material, see Stearyl Alcohol.
Storage and handling
Store sealed in dry, clean conditions away from heat, oxidizers and strong odors. Prevent moisture uptake, contamination and package deformation, and follow the grade-specific shelf-life and stacking guidance.
Safety, documentation and procurement
Control dust or hot-melt exposure and use suitable personal protection according to the current SDS. Procurement should specify grade, fatty-alcohol profile, form, quantity, packaging, destination and documentation.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
Is 1-Hexadecanol CAS 36653-82-4 the same material as cetyl alcohol?
A: Yes. 1-Hexadecanol, hexadecan-1-ol and cetyl alcohol identify the C16 fatty alcohol associated with CAS 36653-82-4. Do not treat it as equivalent to cetearyl alcohol, which is normally a C16/C18 blend. Confirm the carbon-chain distribution rather than relying on the trade name alone. -
Q:
Which specifications matter when selecting 1-Hexadecanol for an industrial formulation?
A: The useful release profile normally includes total alcohol and C16 content, hydroxyl value, acid value, iodine value, saponification value, moisture, hydrocarbons, color and melting or solidification range. Agree the methods and limits before ordering because a nominal cetyl-alcohol grade does not define the same chain distribution or performance. -
Q:
What physical forms and packing should be confirmed for bulk 1-Hexadecanol?
A: Commercial cetyl alcohol may be offered as flakes, pastilles or molten bulk material. State the required form, net weight, palletization or heated-bulk requirement, destination and annual volume in the inquiry. The quotation and batch COA should identify the offered grade and its C16 specification.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.
Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.




