Cellulose Acetate Phthalate (CAP)
Whatsapp Order
Cellulose Acetate Phthalate (CAP) is a cellulose derivative obtained by esterification of cellulose with acetic acid and phthalic anhydride. It appears as a white to off-white, free-flowing powder that is insoluble in water but soluble in alkaline solutions and certain organic solvents. CAP is primarily used as an enteric coating agent in pharmaceutical formulations, providing resistance to acidic gastric fluids and enabling targeted release of drugs in the intestines. Due to its film-forming, pH-sensitive solubility, and protective properties, CAP is also applied in food, cosmetics, and specialty industrial uses.
Description
Table of Contents
Toggle
Cellulose Acetate Phthalate (CAP)
Primary Uses
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Widely used as an enteric coating polymer for tablets and capsules to prevent dissolution in stomach acid and enable targeted release in the intestines.
- Provides protection for acid-sensitive drugs and reduces gastric irritation.
- Acts as a controlled-release film former in oral dosage forms.
- Food Industry
- Used as a coating agent for confectionery and food products to provide gloss and protective barriers.
- Functions as a controlled-release matrix for flavor and nutrient encapsulation.
- Cosmetics
- Employed in nail polish formulations and other cosmetics for film-forming and gloss-enhancing properties.
- Provides water-resistant coatings.
Secondary Uses
- Packaging Industry
- Utilized in specialty coatings for biodegradable films and packaging materials for controlled permeability.
- Adhesives & Sealants
- Applied as a component in water-resistant adhesives and sealants.
- Printing Industry
- Used in inks and coatings to improve film durability and chemical resistance.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Cellulose, acetate, phthalate
- Common/Trade Name: Cellulose Acetate Phthalate, CAP
- CAS Number: 9004-35-7
- HS Code: 3912.10.00
- Molecular Formula: Variable (cellulose backbone with acetate and phthalate ester substitutions)
- Synonyms:
- CAP
- Cellulose acetate phthalate polymer
- Phthalylated cellulose acetate
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: White to off-white powder
- Color & Odor: White/off-white; virtually odorless
- Melting Point: Decomposes before melting
- Boiling Point: Not applicable
- Density: Approximately 1.3–1.4 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Insoluble in water and gastric acid (pH <3)
- Soluble in alkaline conditions (pH >6)
- Soluble in acetone, ethanol, and certain organic solvents
- pH Sensitivity: Dissolves at intestinal pH (around 6.8 and above)
- Stability: Stable under dry, cool storage conditions; sensitive to strong acids and bases
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous under normal use
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 0
- Flammability: 1 (combustible dust risk)
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits; general dust precautions advised
- Toxicity: Non-toxic; widely regarded as safe for pharmaceutical and food uses
- Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid strong oxidizers and acids
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight
- Container Type: Sealed, moisture-proof containers or bags (plastic or foil-lined)
- Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly
- Special Handling: Avoid dust generation and inhalation; use PPE when handling powders
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved as a pharmaceutical excipient and food additive in regulated uses
- REACH Status: Registered
- Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous material
- Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local regulations; biodegradable under industrial composting
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact; biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Persistence: Moderate biodegradability; slow in some conditions
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable, but may require controlled conditions
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
Safety Handling Precautions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Dust mask or respirator for powder handling
- Safety goggles
- Gloves recommended
Handling Measures:
- Avoid dust formation and accumulation
- Use in well-ventilated areas
- Prevent contact with strong acids or oxidizers
Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly sealed and dry
- Store away from heat and ignition sources
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while handling product
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Remove to fresh air; seek medical attention if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Eye Contact: Flush with water for 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
- Ingestion: Non-toxic; rinse mouth and seek medical advice if large quantities ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible powder; may produce dust explosion hazard
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂
- Special Precautions: Avoid dust accumulation; firefighters should wear protective equipment and respiratory protection
- Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides, phthalic anhydride, and acetic acid vapors under thermal decomposition
Related products
Almond Bitter Oil
Almond Bitter Oil, derived from the kernels of bitter almonds (Prunus amygdalus var. amara), is an essential oil known for its sharp, nutty, and marzipan-like aroma. This oil is produced through steam distillation of crushed bitter almond kernels and contains a naturally occurring compound called benzaldehyde, which gives it its characteristic scent. In purified form (free of hydrogen cyanide), bitter almond oil is used in fragrance, flavoring, and pharmaceutical applications.
Due to its potent aroma and biochemical properties, it is widely used in perfumery, baked goods flavoring (in controlled quantities), aromatherapy, and traditional topical remedies. It is important to distinguish between natural bitter almond oil, which must be detoxified, and synthetic benzaldehyde, which is commonly used as a substitute in commercial formulations.
Ammonia Acetate
Ammonia Acetate is a white crystalline solid or granular powder with a mild ammoniacal odor. It is a salt formed from ammonia and acetic acid, widely used in laboratories, industrial processes, and some niche food and pharmaceutical applications. Ammonium Acetate is highly soluble in water and often utilized as a buffer solution in biochemical and analytical chemistry due to its ability to maintain pH. It also serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various chemicals and acts as a neutralizing agent in several industrial applications.
Avobenzone
Avobenzone (chemical name: Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane) is an oil-soluble organic compound widely used as a UVA filter in sunscreen formulations. It is valued for its ability to absorb a broad spectrum of ultraviolet A (UVA) rays (320–400 nm), protecting the skin from premature aging and damage caused by sun exposure. Avobenzone is often combined with other UV filters to provide broad-spectrum sun protection. It is a pale yellow liquid or crystalline powder, soluble in oils and alcohols but unstable in sunlight unless stabilized with other agents.
Cetomacrogol PEG1000 (Ginonic CSA 20)
Cetomacrogol PEG (Ginonic CSA) is a polyethylene glycol-based nonionic surfactant and emulsifier with an average molecular weight of approximately 1000 Da. It appears as a white to off-white waxy solid or flakes with a neutral odor. This high-quality grade is widely used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and personal care formulations due to its excellent emulsifying, solubilizing, and moisturizing properties. Cetomacrogol PEG1000 (Ginonic CSA 20) facilitates stable oil-in-water emulsions, improves product texture and skin feel, and enhances the bioavailability of active ingredients. Its hydrophilic nature and compatibility with a wide range of ingredients make it a versatile additive in creams, lotions, ointments, and topical gels.
Dill Seed Oil Terpeneless
Dill Seed Oil Terpeneless is a refined essential oil obtained by steam distillation of the seeds of Anethum graveolens, with terpenes removed to reduce its sharpness and volatility. It has a mild, sweet, herbaceous aroma with faint spicy undertones. This oil is prized for its improved stability, softer fragrance profile, and enhanced suitability in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and cleaning applications. Traditionally used for digestive support and antimicrobial properties, dill seed oil terpeneless is incorporated in natural personal care products, aromatherapy, and household formulations.
Lactose Monohydrate 200 Mesh
Lactose Monohydrate 200 Mesh is a fine, white, crystalline powder derived from milk sugar with a particle size of 200 mesh, indicating very fine granules. It is widely used in pharmaceutical, food, and confectionery industries as a filler, binder, and stabilizer. Lactose Monohydrate is valued for its excellent compressibility, low hygroscopicity, and compatibility with many active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The monohydrate form contains one molecule of water, enhancing its stability and flow properties.
Povidone PVP25 USP
Povidone PVP25 USP is a synthetic polymer of vinylpyrrolidone with an average molecular weight of approximately 25,000. It is a water-soluble, non-toxic, and biodegradable polymer widely used as a binder, film former, stabilizer, and solubilizing agent in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications. Its excellent adhesive properties and compatibility with a wide range of substances make it essential in tablet formulations, topical products, and adhesives.
Sodium Chloride (Industrial Salt)
Sodium Chloride (Industrial Salt) is a highly purified, sterile, and non-pyrogenic salt intended for intravenous, intramuscular, and subcutaneous administration. It is commonly used in medical and pharmaceutical settings as a key component of intravenous fluids, for rehydration therapy, electrolyte replenishment, and as a diluent for injectable drugs. This grade meets stringent pharmacopoeial standards (British Pharmacopoeia) ensuring safety and compatibility with parenteral use.

Preservatives(food)
Flavor Enhancers
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
Laboratory Safety Chemicals
Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
Demulsifiers
Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
Scale Inhibitors(oil)
Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
Dyes and Pigments
Bleaching Agents
Softening Agents
Finishing Agents
Antistatic Agents
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
Fragrances
Electronic Chemicals
Catalysts
Lubricants
Photographic Chemicals
Refrigerants
Automotive chemicals
Pyrotechnic Chemicals
Biodegradable Surfactants
Bio-based Solvents
Renewable Polymers
Carbon Capture Chemicals
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
Pigments
Solvents(paint)
Specialty Coatings
Binders/Resins
Additives
Driers
Anti-Corrosion Agents
Functional Coatings
Application-Specific Coatings
Leavening Agents
Dough Conditioners
Flour Treatments
Fat Replacers
Decoratives
Preservatives(baking)
Plasticizers & Softeners
Reinforcing Agents
Adhesion Promoters
Vulcanizing Agents
Antidegradants
Blowing Agents
Fillers & Extenders
Accelerators & Retarders