Product Overview & China Production Capacity
Cetyl Alcohol (1-Hexadecanol, CAS 36653-82-4, molecular formula C₁₆H₃₄O, MW 242.44) is a long-chain fatty alcohol used extensively in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, thickening agent, and co-emulsifier. In pharmaceutical creams and ointments, it imparts body, viscosity, and smooth texture while enhancing the stability of oil-in-water emulsion systems. It also serves as a coating agent and controlled-release modifier in solid dosage forms.
China is among the top three global producers of cetyl alcohol, with an annual capacity exceeding 80,000 MT across all grades. Our oleochemical plant in Jiangsu Province produces 5,000 MT/year of pharmaceutical-grade cetyl alcohol (≥95% C16 content) through fractional distillation and hydrogenation of natural palm kernel and coconut fatty acids.
Manufacturing Standards & Quality Assurance
Manufacturing operates under pharmaceutical compliance with ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 22716 (cosmetic quality standard) certifications. The product meets USP/NF, EP, BP, and ChP monograph specifications for Cetyl Alcohol. All raw materials are 100% vegetable-derived from sustainable palm sources with RSPO certification.
Quality control testing includes GC composition analysis (C14–C18 chain length distribution), hydroxyl value, acid value, iodine value, saponification value, melting point, color, and heavy metals analysis. Each batch undergoes microbial limits testing conforming to pharmacopeial requirements. Stability data per ICH guidelines is maintained.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White waxy flakes or pellets |
| Cetyl Alcohol Content (GC) | ≥95.0% |
| Hydroxyl Value | 218–238 mg KOH/g |
| Acid Value | ≤1.0 mg KOH/g |
| Iodine Value | ≤1.0 g I₂/100g |
| Saponification Value | ≤2.0 mg KOH/g |
| Melting Point | 46–52°C |
| Color (Hazen, molten) | ≤15 |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤10 ppm |
| Moisture | ≤0.3% |
Packaging & Export Logistics
Packaged in 25 kg PE-lined woven bags (flake form) or 25 kg cartons. Also available in 200 kg drums and 800 kg bulk bags. Pelletized and pastille forms offered for improved dosing precision. Store below 30°C in dry conditions. Shelf life is 36 months from manufacture. Non-hazardous goods — no special transport requirements.
We ship from Shanghai, Nantong, and Ningbo ports. Transit to EU ports averages 22–30 days; to US ports 20–28 days. Full logistics coordination including customs clearance documentation, phytosanitary certificates, and preferential trade documentation is provided.
China Supply Advantage
Our competitive pricing for pharmaceutical-grade cetyl alcohol is 30–45% below equivalent European and Southeast Asian offerings. China’s mature oleochemical infrastructure, competitive energy costs, and efficient production scale translate to unbeatable unit economics for high-purity fatty alcohol excipients.
MOQ is 500 kg with standard production lead time of 7–10 business days. We carry permanent stock of 100+ MT for quick dispatch. Long-term supply agreements with fixed quarterly pricing are available for volumes exceeding 5 MT/year. Our formulation scientists are available to assist with emulsion system optimization. Request a sample and quotation today.