Glycerol monostearate, known by the abbreviation GMS, is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C₂₁H₄₂O₄ and is usually supplied as a white, odorless powder. It is produced by the reaction of glycerol with stearic acid, and the stearic acid used can come from vegetable or animal fat sources. Commercial GMS contains, in addition to monoglyceride, some diglyceride and triglyceride, and its exact composition depends on the production method and the product grade. The melting point of this material is usually between 57 and 65 °C. Glycerol monostearate does not dissolve in water, but it can disperse in it, and it dissolves in some organic solvents.

Key features of glycerol monostearate include its emulsifying, stabilizing, thickening and lubricating effects. The molecular structure of this material has a hydrophilic part and a lipophilic part, so it reduces the interfacial tension between water and oil and helps form uniform, stable emulsions. GMS also improves the texture, consistency and uniformity of products and prevents the separation of their components. The ability to absorb and retain moisture is another of its features, which matters in some formulations. In the polymer industries, its lubricating and antistatic properties also help improve the production process and reduce problems caused by the build-up of electric charge. The final performance of the product depends on its purity, the composition of the glycerides and the grade used.

In the food industry, glycerol monostearate is used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in the production of ice cream, cream, margarine, edible oils and bakery products, and it helps improve texture, increase uniformity and maintain product quality. In ice cream production it can help improve texture and control the formation of ice crystals, and in bakery products it helps improve dough structure and the final texture.

In the cosmetic and personal care industries, GMS is used in the production of creams, lotions, sunscreens, skin and hair care products and some makeup products, and it helps combine the water and oil phases and create a soft, uniform texture. In the pharmaceutical industry it is also used as an excipient in the formulation of creams, ointments, tablets and capsules, and depending on the formulation it can act as a lubricant or as an agent that helps control the release of drug substances.

In the plastics and polymer industries, glycerol monostearate is used as a lubricant and antistatic agent. In the textile industry it acts as a softener, and in the processing of rubber and other industrial materials it also helps improve processability. The right grade should be chosen according to the type of application and the technical requirements of each industry.

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