Lignoceric fatty acid
Abbreviations
- LGA
Synonyms
- tetracosanoic acid
Description
Represents a 24-carbon saturated fatty acid. It is a very-long-chain saturated fatty acid (VLSFA) found naturally in wood tar, various cerebrosides, and in small amounts in most natural fats, including peanut oil.
Nutritional potential:
Lignoceric acid is a vital component of sphingolipids, which are essential for the formation and maintenance of the myelin sheath (the protective coating around nerve fibers) in the nervous system. While it is synthesized endogenously, dietary VLSFAs are poorly absorbed in the gut. In the general population, higher circulating levels of VLSFAs (including lignoceric acid) are associated with favorable metabolic health and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. However, an inability to metabolize these very-long-chain fatty acids due to genetic peroxisomal disorders (such as X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, ALD) leads to their harmful accumulation in the brain and adrenal glands.
Biodiesel potential:
In fuel applications, lignoceric acid provides an exceptionally high cetane number (CN) and outstanding oxidation stability (OS). However, due to its extremely high melting point (approx. 84°C), it is highly detrimental to cold-weather operability. Even trace amounts of lignoceric acid in biodiesel feedstocks will drastically raise the cold filter plugging point (CFPP) and cloud point, causing severe fuel gelling and filter clogging at ambient temperatures.