Use of ceramids as thickening agents

摘要

Use of a ceramide deriv. of formula R1CH(OH)-CH(CH2OH)-NH-C(O)-(CHOH)nR2 (I) or its optical or diastereoisomer as a thickening agent is new. R1 = opt. unsatd. 9-25C hydrocarbon; R2 = opt. unsatd. 5-29C hydrocarbon; and n = 0-1. Also claimed is the process of thickening a medium comprising dissolving (I) in the medium at a temp. of ambient to b.pt. of the medium and leaving the medium to stand until thickening is complete. Also claimed is the use of the medium thickened with (I) in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paints, varnish, lubricants, food prods. or fuel.