Raw CNSL is a cold press or solvent extracted liquid from Cashew Nut Shell. It contains approximately 70% of anacardic acid, 18% of cardol, 5% of cardanol and 2% of 2-methyl cardanol with the remainder being made up of other phenols and less polar substances. Anacardic acid and Cardanol are monohydroxy phenols. Cardol and methyl cardanol are dihydroxy phenols.
RCT-446 can be decarboxylated to obtain a Technical CNSL (TCNSL) or it can be decarboxylated and distilled to yield high purity Cardanol, a highly desirable alkylphenolic compounds in the coatings and adhesive industries.
