
Oleochemicals are chemicals mainly derived from natural raw materials such as, soybean oil, linseed oil, vegetable oil, castor oil, animal oils & fats and, also from petrochemical feedstock. Oleochemicals in general have low toxicity as compared to petrochemicals. Oleochemicals are gaining popularity as they can be substituted for the petroleum-based products. Oleochemicals are biodegradable and considered to be environment friendly. Oleochemicals come under green products category and are used extensively in a wide range of applications and several emerging applications, namely, personal care, cosmetics, soaps & detergents, food additives among, others. With the rising environmental concerns, oleochemicals also find applications in the growing paints and coatings industry, rubber industry, paper, animal feed, lubricants and printing industry.