Product introduction
Propionic acid (IUPAC: propanoic acid; CAS 79-09-4) is a short-chain carboxylic acid supplied commercially as a clear, colorless to slightly yellow corrosive liquid. It is widely applied as an antimicrobial preservative (directly or as salts), a process intermediate for esters and acid derivatives, and an industrial feedstock for polymers and specialty chemicals. Typical commercial grades include technical and reagent specifications with lot-specific Certificates of Analysis (CoA) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
Storage conditions
Store in original, tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidisers and strong bases. Protect from heat and sources of ignition; keep containers sealed to prevent contact with moisture and to limit volatilization and odour release. For bulk handling use corrosion-resistant tanks, secondary containment and appropriate vent-scrubbing for off-gases.
Applications & Descriptions
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Preservative For Bakery & Feed
Used (directly or as sodium/calcium propionate salts) to inhibit mould and certain bacteria in baked goods and animal feed; this use accounts for a significant portion of global production. -
Chemical Intermediate (Esters & Derivatives)
Reacted to form esters (e.g., ethyl propionate, methyl propionate) and acid chlorides/anhydrides used as solvents, flavour precursors and acylating reagents in fine-chemical manufacture. -
Cellulose Ester & Polymer Intermediates
Used in the production of cellulose-acetate-propionate and other propionylated polymers where propionyl functionality modifies thermoplastic and barrier properties. -
Industrial Solvent & Formulation Component
Employed as a co-solvent or azeotrope component in specialty formulations and certain extraction or processing operations where its polarity is advantageous. -
Corrosion Inhibitor Intermediate / Oilfield Chemistry
Used as a building block in synthetic routes to amine and ester derivatives applied in corrosion inhibition and oilfield chemical additives. -
Laboratory Reagent & Analytical Use
Supplied as a reagent for organic synthesis, method development and R&D where a short-chain carboxylic acid is required.
