Characterization of Lauric Acid Precipitated from Biocompatible Solvents

Abstract

Water resistance of lauric acid (L) dissolved in biocompatible solvents mainly depended on the water affinity of solvent. L in DMSO (DL) was most sensitive to water and higher than L in N-methyl pyrrolidone (NL) and L in 2-pyrolidone (PL), respectively. From scanning electron microscope, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, powder x-ray diffractometry and hot stage microscope tests revealed the alteration of L crystal owing to the interference by solvent during precipitation. All L precipitates had lower melting point and degradation temperature than intact L in which L precipitated from 2-pyrrolidone exhibited the lowest melting temperature. These characteristics will be useful for modifying L in phase inversion in situ forming gel.