Arachidic fatty acid
Abbreviations
- ARA
Synonyms
- eicosanoic acid
Description
Represents a 20-carbon saturated fatty acid. It is a minor component of peanut oil (from which it derives its name, Arachis hypogaea) and is also found in small amounts in other vegetable oils and animal fats.
Nutritional potential:
Arachidic acid belongs to the group of very-long-chain saturated fatty acids (VLSFAs). Unlike shorter-chain saturated fats (such as palmitic acid), recent epidemiological studies suggest that higher circulating levels of VLSFAs, including arachidic acid, are inversely associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and overall mortality. They appear to have a protective effect on metabolic health and healthy aging, though they are consumed in very small amounts in a typical diet.
Biodiesel potential:
In fuel applications, arachidic acid provides an extremely high cetane number (CN) and exceptional oxidation stability (OS). However, its very high melting point (approx. 75°C) makes it highly detrimental to cold-weather operability. Even small concentrations of arachidic acid in biodiesel feedstocks can significantly raise the cold filter plugging point (CFPP) and cloud point, leading to severe fuel gelling and filter clogging at ambient or low temperatures.