Stearic anhydride
Stearic anhydride (CAS 638-08-4) is a fatty acid anhydride with the molecular formula [CH3(CH2)16CO]2O and a molecular weight of 550.94 g/mol. It is primarily used in organic synthesis as an acylating agent. This compound is a derivative of stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid, and finds utility in various chemical processes requiring the introduction of the stearoyl group.
- IUPAC
- Octadecanoic anhydride
- Synonyms
- Octadecanoic anhydride
![Stearic anhydride ([CH3(CH2)16CO]2O) — chemical structure, CAS 638-08-4; Life Science, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F638-08-4.png&w=3840&q=75)
Organic Synthesis
Stearic anhydride serves as a valuable reagent in organic chemistry for the acylation of alcohols, amines, and other nucleophiles. It allows for the efficient introduction of the octadecanoyl (stearoyl) group into target molecules.
Chemical Intermediate
As a derivative of stearic acid, it can be employed as an intermediate in the synthesis of more complex organic compounds. Its anhydride structure offers distinct reactivity compared to the parent fatty acid.
Biochemical Research
While specific applications require further investigation, its classification under biochemicals and reagents suggests potential use in research settings for modifying biological molecules or in lipid-related studies.
| Molecular weight | 550.94 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | [CH3(CH2)16CO]2O |
| Assay | ≥97.0% (GC) |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Melting point | 70-72 °C(lit.) |
Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Stearic anhydride used for?
+
Stearic anhydride is primarily used as an acylating agent in organic synthesis for introducing the stearoyl group, and as a chemical intermediate.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Stearic anhydride?
+
The CAS number is 638-08-4, and the linear chemical formula is [CH3(CH2)16CO]2O.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Stearic anhydride with an assay of ≥97.0% (GC). This product is not represented as USP, BP, EP, or any pharmacopoeia grade.
How should Stearic anhydride be handled safely?
+
Stearic anhydride is a Warning substance that causes skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335). Recommended personal protective equipment includes a dust mask type N95 (US), eyeshields, and gloves. Ensure good ventilation and avoid breathing dust.
How is Stearic anhydride stored and shipped?
+
Stearic anhydride should be stored at −20°C. As a specialist global supplier and exporter, Tech Serve Solutions ensures appropriate packaging and shipping protocols are followed for all chemical products.
How can I request a quote or sample for Stearic anhydride?
+
To request a quote or sample, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone, providing the product name and CAS number (638-08-4).
▶ Related products
![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide (C8H13N3O4) — chemical structure, CAS 138472-01-2; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F138472-01-2.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide
C8H13N3O4
Biochemicals & Reagents![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide (C14H18N4O4) — chemical structure, CAS 162626-99-5; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F162626-99-5.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide
C14H18N4O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2,5-Dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetamine hydrobromide
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-(p-Methoxyphenoxy)propionic acid
C10H12O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Amino-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene hydrobromide
C10H13NO2·HBr
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxyoctanoic acid
C8H16O3
Biochemicals & Reagents▶ Explore more
3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis