Glycerol Monooleate (GMO)

Glycerol Monooleate (GMO) a versatile emulsifier and surfactant widely used across food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial sectors.

Description

What Is Glycerol Monooleate?

  • Chemical identity: A monoester of glycerol and oleic acid (C18:1), typically appearing as a yellowish, waxy solid or viscous liquid.
  • HLB value: ~3.6 (lipophilic), making it ideal for water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions.

Key Benefits

  • Emulsification: Stabilizes W/O emulsions, especially in creams, lotions, and fat-based systems.
  • Lubrication: Reduces friction in processing equipment and tablet manufacturing.
  • Moisture retention: Enhances hydration in topical and food applications.
  • Controlled release: Used in pharmaceuticals to modulate drug release profiles.
  • Anti-spattering: Prevents fat spattering in frying applications.

Functional Roles

Function Description
Emulsifier Forms stable W/O emulsions in food and cosmetics
Lubricant Improves flow and compression in tablet production
Dispersant Helps disperse active ingredients uniformly
Plasticizer Enhances flexibility in polymer and packaging applications
Anti-spatter agent Reduces oil spattering during frying

 

Applications by Industry

  • Food:
    • Used in margarine, frying oils, and bakery fats
    • Improves texture, prevents spattering, enhances stability
  • Pharmaceuticals:
    • Tablet lubricant, emulsifier in ointments
    • Supports controlled release and bioavailability
  • Cosmetics:
    • Creams, lotions, sunscreens
    • Enhances spreadability and moisture retention
  • Industrial:
  • Lubricants, metalworking fluids, plastics
  • Acts as a dispersant and plasticizer

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