Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO) is a waxy, brittle, and hard compound that is a derivative of vegetable oil:
Appearance
HCO is cream to white in color, and is odorless and tasteless. When melted, it is clear, transparent, or straw-colored.
Uses
HCO has many industrial and manufacturing applications, including:
Personal care: HCO is used in cosmetics, ointments, deodorants, and hair care products as a thickening agent and emollient.
Plastics: HCO is used as a lubricant and release agent for PVC. It also improves the grease resistance, dispersion, and processing of sheeted polyethylene.
Waxes: HCO is used as a binding agent in petroleum and synthetic waxes.
Production
HCO is made by catalytically hydrogenating the unsaturated bonds of vegetable oils with heavy metals like nickel. This process is followed by polyglycolysis and ethoxylation to increase the chemical stability of the excipient.
Storage
HCO should be stored in a dry place away from direct sunlight in sealed, original packaging.
