Methyl Palmitate

Brief Overview

Methyl palmitate also known as palmitic acid methyl ester, is a fatty acid methyl ester with a molecular formula of C17H34O2. Methyl palmitate is a clear colorless crystalline solid in room temperature with low melting point of 32-35 degrees centigrade and insoluble in water.

Manufacturing Process

The production of methyl palmitate is done by reacting methanol and palmitic acid through an esterification process under temperature of 80 degrees centigrade and pressure of 6 bar.

Cosmetic applications

Methyl palmitate provides the oil needed on the surface of the skin to form a layer of lipids. The layer inhibits water evaporation and helps to moisturize the skin. Therefore, methyl palmitate are able to retain moisture present in the skin to prevent the skin from drying. In addition, the compound is used in manufacturing soap based on the saponification process

Pharmaceutical Applications

The antimetabolite properties of methyl palmitate benefit the manufacture of pharmaceutical products of anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic drugs to treat lung inflammation and fibrosis. The compound inhibits the macrophage that damages the tissue lining of the lungs and prevents immune response to the damaged tissue.

Food Applications

Methyl palmitate has a pungent flavor and used as a flavoring agent in the food industry. The addition of the chemical compound as a flavoring agent helps to enhance food flavor quality.