Diffraction of X-Rays by Sodium Stearate at Room Temperature

The alpha-form of sodium stearate, originally reported by Thiessen and Stauff, and of which a sample was made available to us, has been re-examined and the data found to be in general conformity with those of the previous investigation. Re-examination of their monoclinic betaform of sodium stearate, obtained by heating the rhombic form above 54°C, yields a different set of data. A new, more stable, monoclinic form of sodium stearate has been examined and designated as the gamma-form.