Myristyl myristate is a saturated medium-chain wax ester produced by the esterification of myristic acid (C14:0) and myristyl alcohol (C14H29OH). It occupies a central position in the simple wax lipid series due to its perfectly symmetric chain length. Sourced from nutmeg, palm kernel, or coconut oils, this emollient provides a velvety texture and rapid absorption, making it ideal for lightweight formulations. It bridges the fluidity of lauryl laurate and the structural properties of cetyl stearate.
Chemical Structure
Myristyl myristate has the molecular formula C28H56O2 and a molecular weight of 424.75 g/mol. Its symmetrical structure—CH3(CH2)12COO(CH2)13CH3—contains 26 rotatable bonds, one ester linkage, no hydrogen bond donors, and a topological polar surface area (TPSA) of 26.3 Ų. These characteristics yield an estimated XLogP3 of ~14.0 and support optimal β-crystalline packing through uniform C14/C14 chain interactions.
Physical Properties
Myristyl myristate is a white to yellowish waxy solid with a melting point of 40–44°C, slightly above skin temperature. It has a density of approximately 0.87 g/cm³ and a predicted boiling point near 500°C. The compound is insoluble in water but highly soluble in oils, ethanol, and chloroform. Its low viscosity in the molten state facilitates spray drying, while an HLB value of ~7 supports oil-in-water emulsification without imparting greasiness.
Synthesis and Production
Myristyl myristate is produced through catalyzed esterification of myristic acid and 1-tetradecanol, derived from Myristica fragrans or palm oil fractionation. The product is purified via vacuum distillation, achieving purities above 99%. Lipase-mediated synthesis can also be employed to preserve triglyceride-free status, ensuring a clean sensory profile suitable for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.