Castor Oil & Derivatives
Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO / Castor Wax) - Bulk Supplier & Exporter
Also known as Castor Wax. A high-purity, stabilised derivative of castor oil - a hard, off-white flake with excellent thermal stability used as a thickener, emollient and lubricant.
About Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Hydrogenated Castor Oil (HCO), commonly traded as castor wax, is produced by catalytic hydrogenation of refined castor oil. The reaction saturates the double bonds, converting a liquid oil into a hard, brittle, odourless off-white flake with a melting point of roughly 85-88 °C.
Because it is fully hydrogenated (iodine value ≤ 3), HCO is highly resistant to oxidation, moisture and most solvents. That stability is why it is a standard structuring and thickening agent in lithium and calcium greases, hot-melt formulations, and wax blends.
Biodyne supplies HCO in 25 kg bags and 500/1,000 kg jumbo bags, in flake form, with a batch Certificate of Analysis. Trial quantities and full container loads are both available.
Applications
Lubricating greases
Used as a thickener and structuring agent in lithium, calcium and complex greases, contributing drop point stability and water resistance.
Coatings & inks
Added as a rheology modifier and anti-settling agent that controls sag and improves matting in paints and printing inks.
Plastics & polymers
Serves as an internal lubricant, mould release and processing aid in PVC, polyolefins and engineering plastics.
Cosmetics & personal care
A structurant and emollient in lipsticks, sticks, balms and creams where a hard, stable, odourless wax is needed.
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Off-White Flakes |
| Gardner Color | ≤ 2 |
| Acid Value | ≤ 2 |
| Iodine Value | ≤ 3 |
| Hydroxyl Value | 155 – 160 |
| Saponification Value | 175 – 185 |
| Moisture & Volatiles | ≤ 0.25% |
| Melting Point | 85 – 88 °C |
Packaging
- Bags: 25 kg PP Bags or Paper Bags (Palletised / Unpalletised)
- Bulk Packing: Jumbo Bags of 500 kg or 1,000 kg (Palletised)
Storage & Shelf Life
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight (10–30 °C).
- Shelf life: 12–24 months under recommended storage conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hydrogenated castor oil the same as castor wax?
Yes. Castor wax is the common trade name for fully hydrogenated castor oil supplied in flake or powder form.
What is the melting point of HCO?
Typically 85-88 °C for the fully hydrogenated grade we supply.
Is HCO soluble in water?
No. Fully hydrogenated castor oil is insoluble in water and has limited solubility in most cold solvents; it dissolves in hot organic solvents and oils.
In what form and packing is HCO supplied?
Off-white flakes in 25 kg PP or paper bags, or 500 kg / 1,000 kg jumbo bags, palletised or unpalletised.
What is the shelf life of castor wax?
12-24 months when stored in a cool, dry place at 10-30 °C, away from direct sunlight.
Related Products
12-HSA
A high-performance fatty acid derivative of castor oil. Used as a gelling, thickening and lubricating agent - especially as the key thickener in lithium and calcium greases.
Castor Oil FSG
Premium refined castor oil from selected seeds - cleaned, dehulled, mechanically pressed, then degummed, neutralised, bleached and filtered. Clear, pale yellow, low acidity, suited to pharma, cosmetics, food-grade and industrial use.
Methyl 12-HSA
Methyl 12-Hydroxy Stearate (Methyl 12-HSA) - a high-purity castor oil ester used as a lubricant additive, emollient and specialty intermediate for industrial, cosmetic and bio-lubricant formulations. Detailed specifications available on request.
Browse the full castor oil and derivatives catalogue or book a call with our supply team.
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