| Glycerol monostearate | |
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2,3-dihydroxypropyl octadecanoate |
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Other names
Glyceryl monostearate |
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| Identifiers | |
| CAS number | 123-94-4 , (pure grade)[1] 11099-07-3 (crude grade)[1] 31566-31-1 (generic)[1] 85666-92-8 (generic)[1] 85251-77-0 (glycerides, C16-18 mono- and di-) |
| ChemSpider | 23095 |
| KEGG | D01947 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL255696 |
| Jmol-3D images | Image 1 |
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| Properties | |
| Molecular formula | C21H42O4 |
| Molar mass | 358.57 g/mol |
| Appearance | white, yellowish |
| Density | 0.97 |
| Melting point |
58–59 °C (136–138 °F) |
| Boiling point |
238–240 °C (460–464 °F) |
| Solubility in water | Soluble in hot ethanol, diethyl ether, benzene, acetone, mineral or fixed oils, insoluble in water |
| Hazards | |
| Flash point | 230 °C (446 °F) (open cup) |
| (verify) (what is: /?) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) |
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| Infobox references | |
Glycerol monostearate, commonly known as GMS, is an organic molecule used as an emulsifier.[2] GMS is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting flaky powder that is hygroscopic. It is a glycerol ester of stearic acid. It occurs naturally in the body as a by-product of the breakdown of fats, and is also found in fatty foods.
GMS is a food additive used as a thickening, emulsifying, anti-caking, and preservative agent; an emulsifying agent for oils, waxes, and solvents; a protective coating for hygroscopic powders; a solidifier and control release agent in pharmaceuticals; and a resin lubricant. It is also used in cosmetics and hair care products.[3] GMS is largely used in baking preparations to add "body" to the food. It is responsible for giving ice cream and whipped cream its smooth texture.