Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate CAS 71012-10-7

Introduction to Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate

Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate is a pale-yellow to amber viscous liquid, a non-ionic lipophilic emulsifier formed by esterifying a tetraglycerol chain with oleic acid. The four-unit glycerol backbone provides multiple hydroxyl groups for strong interfacial anchoring, while the C18:1 oleoyl tail delivers excellent compatibility with triglycerides, esters, and silicone oils. Formulators rely on it as a primary W/O emulsifier, co-emulsifier, and inorganic pigment dispersant in cold-process creams, cleansing oils, and mineral sunscreens.

The tetraglycerol head creates a denser hydrogen-bond network at the oil-water interface than single-glycerol esters, stabilising W/O droplets against coalescence at concentrations as low as 1.5%. One practical caution: the oleic acid chain crystallises below 10 °C, causing cloudiness, graininess, or phase separation in finished products. Always store at 15–35 °C and incorporate 2–3% medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) into the oil phase to depress the crystallisation point and maintain clarity.

Key Features of Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate

• Zero-EO, COSMOS-compliant. Synthesised via direct esterification of polyglycerol and oleic acid. No ethylene oxide is used, eliminating 1,4-dioxane risk and satisfying COSMOS, Ecocert, and vegan formulation requirements.
• Strong interfacial anchoring. Four glycerol units provide eight free hydroxyl groups that form a dense hydrogen-bond network at the W/O interface, preventing droplet coalescence even under thermal cycling.
• Cold-process compatibility. The liquid state at room temperature and low melting range allow incorporation into oil phases at 25–40 °C, eliminating energy-intensive heating steps and protecting heat-sensitive actives.
• Excellent pigment wetting. The oleoyl tail adsorbs onto hydrophobic ZnO and TiO₂ surfaces, reducing agglomeration and improving SPF uniformity in mineral sunscreens without requiring additional coating agents.

Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate Chemical & Physical Properties

Applications of Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate

W/O cold-process creams and lotions: Used at 2–5% of the oil phase. The tetraglycerol head anchors at the oil-water interface while the oleoyl tail extends into the continuous oil phase, forming stable W/O droplets at 1–10 µm without heating above 40 °C.

Cleansing oils and makeup removers: Dosed at 5–15%. The lipophilic tail dissolves long-wear pigments and silicone-based foundations, while the glycerol head allows rapid rinse-off with water, leaving no greasy residue.

Mineral sunscreens and BB creams: Added at 1–3% relative to pigment load. The oleoyl chain wets ZnO and TiO₂ particle surfaces, reducing agglomerates below 5 µm and improving SPF homogeneity across application areas.

Food-grade emulsions and bakery release agents: Incorporated at 0.5–2% in edible oil blends. Provides uniform fat distribution in dough and prevents sticking on baking surfaces without introducing synthetic emulsifiers.

Storage & Safety Precautions for Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate

Storage conditions. Store in sealed HDPE drums at 15–35 °C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Below 10 °C the oleic acid chain crystallises, causing the liquid to turn cloudy or form a waxy sediment. If crystallisation occurs, warm the drum to 40–45 °C and stir gently until fully homogeneous. Do not exceed 60 °C to avoid oxidative yellowing of the unsaturated C18:1 bond.

Safety and PPE. GHS: Not classified as hazardous. Non-irritating to skin and eyes at cosmetic concentrations. Wear standard nitrile gloves and safety glasses during drum transfers to maintain hygiene. Spills are non-toxic but slippery; contain with inert absorbent and wash with warm soapy water.

Transport classification. Non-DG. Not regulated under IMDG, IATA, or ADR. Ship as standard general cargo. Ensure drum bungs are sealed with PE-lined caps to prevent moisture ingress during ocean freight.

Practitioner note: When formulating a mineral sunscreen, pre-disperse Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate with the ZnO/TiO₂ powder before adding the remaining oil phase. Direct addition to a pre-mixed oil blend results in poor pigment wetting and visible white streaks. Use a high-shear mixer at 3000–5000 rpm for 10–15 minutes to achieve a uniform grind.

Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate FAQ

Q: How do I prevent crystallisation in Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate (CAS 71012-10-7) during winter storage?

A: The oleic acid chain crystallises below 10 °C. Store drums at 15–35 °C. If crystallisation occurs, warm the drum to 40–45 °C in a water bath and stir until clear. For finished formulations, add 2–3% medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) to the oil phase. MCT depresses the crystallisation point by 5–8 °C, maintaining product clarity and texture during cold-chain transport.

Q: What is the optimal HLB balance when pairing Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate with a hydrophilic co-emulsifier?

A: Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate has an HLB of 5–6. For stable W/O emulsions, target a composite HLB of 4–7. Pair it with a hydrophilic co-emulsifier (HLB 8–12) at a 70:30 to 60:40 ratio. For O/W systems, invert the ratio. Always run a 48-hour centrifuge test at 3000 rpm and a 30-day stability test at 45 °C to confirm droplet integrity.

Q: Can it replace PEG-based emulsifiers in “clean beauty” formulations?

A: Yes. Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate is synthesised via direct esterification without ethylene oxide, resulting in zero 1,4-dioxane and zero PEG residues. It meets COSMOS, Ecocert, and EWG verified criteria. The tetraglycerol head provides equivalent emulsification efficiency to PEG-4 esters at the same use level, with superior biodegradation (OECD 301B >70% in 28 days).