Spermaceti

Spermaceti is a shining waxy solid which is obtained from the oil which occurs in certain parts of the White or Sperm Whale. The oil is found chiefly in a cavity situated in the upper jaw, and is usually removed by an aperture cut just alongside the nose, being obtained in very large quantities. On standing and cooling, the oil (sperm oil) deposits crystals of the spermaceti, which are purified by pressure and recrystallisation. Chemically, the substance consists chiefly of cetyl palmitate (C₃₂H₆₄O₂), and, if pure, forms waxy flakes or needles, which melt at 49°. The oil is of a yellow colour, with a slight odour, and is used for illumination and for soap-making. Spermaceti is not now much used medicinally, but an ointment is prepared from it, with Chinese wax and alcohol.