Fatty amines are nitrogen-based organic compounds derived from fatty acids, olefins, or alcohols of natural or petrochemical origin. With their long hydrophobic chains (C8–C22) and cationic surface activity, they are key ingredients in emulsifiers, conditioners, antistatic agents, and surfactants — essential for products such as shampoos, conditioners, and creams.
Traditionally produced from petrochemical sources, fatty amines have contributed to CO₂ emissions. Today, however, the industry is shifting toward renewable and bio-based raw materials, moving closer to a circular and more sustainable economy.
The project started in June 2024 and will run until May 2028. Its mission is to develop a flexible and innovative biotech platform for the sustainable production of bio-based fatty amines, using by-products from the food industry as feedstock. ROELMI HPC is responsible for evaluating the fatty amines produced for cosmetic market applications.
This review explores the origins, synthesis, and diverse applications of fatty amines, highlighting their growing role in greener formulations and the innovations driving sustainability throughout their supply chain.