Bladderpod oil facts for kids
Bladderpod oil is a special kind of oil that comes from the seeds of plants called Physaria fendleri and other similar plants in the Physaria family. These plants grow naturally in the southwestern United States, stretching into Kansas and down into northern Mexico.
This oil is very interesting because it's full of something called lesquerolic acid. This is a type of hydroxy acid, which is a useful chemical compound. The only other common source of a similar hydroxy acid, called ricinoleic acid, used to be castor oil. However, growing castor plants in the U.S. mostly stopped because of economic reasons and some people having allergic reactions when working with the plants. This makes bladderpod oil a promising new source for these important acids.
Other types of bladderpod plants that also produce similar oils include Physaira lindheimeri, Paysonia densipilia, Paysonia auriculata, and Physaria pallida. The P. fendleri plant is especially exciting because it can produce a lot of oil – about 1,500 kilograms per hectare (that's like a football field!) in just a few years of growing.
What Bladderpod Oil is Used For
The special hydroxy acids found in bladderpod oil are very important ingredients for making many different products we use every day.
These acids can be used to create:
- Resins: These are sticky substances used in glues, paints, and plastics.
- Waxes: Used in polishes, candles, and protective coatings.
- Nylons: A strong material used for clothes, ropes, and many other things.
- Plastics: The material for countless items, from toys to car parts.
- Corrosion inhibitors: Substances that stop metal from rusting or wearing away.
- Coatings: Protective layers on surfaces, like paint or varnish.
- Lubricating greases: Slippery substances that help machines move smoothly.
- Cosmetics: Products like makeup, lotions, and soaps.
So, bladderpod oil could become a very important resource for many industries!
