Benzoic Acid

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Benzoic Acid is a white crystalline solid with a faint, pleasant odor, classified as a simple aromatic carboxylic acid. It is widely used as a food preservative, antimicrobial agent, and chemical intermediate. Naturally occurring in many plants, it is commercially produced through oxidation of toluene or extraction from natural sources. Benzoic acid is valued for its ability to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and certain bacteria, making it essential in food preservation and cosmetic formulations. It also serves as a precursor in the manufacture of various pharmaceuticals, dyes, and plasticizers.

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Categories: Preservatives, Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), Preservatives(food) Tags: Aromatic carboxylic acid, Cosmetic preservative, Food Preservative, Pharmaceutical Raw Material, Plasticizer component, Preservative chemical

Description

Table of Contents

Benzoic Acid

Primary Uses

Food Industry:

Used as a food preservative (E210) to prevent spoilage by inhibiting microbial growth in acidic foods such as fruit juices, carbonated drinks, pickles, and sauces.

Pharmaceuticals:

Used in topical antiseptic preparations, ointments, and dermatological products for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Cosmetics & Personal Care:

Incorporated as a preservative and pH adjuster in cosmetics, shampoos, and lotions to prolong shelf life.

Chemical Intermediate:

Used in the synthesis of benzoyl chloride, phenol, dyes, perfumes, and plasticizers.

Preservative for Industrial Products:

Applied in adhesives, paints, and inks to prevent microbial contamination.

Secondary Uses

Agriculture:

Used as a fungicide and herbicide to protect crops from fungal infections and weed growth.

Laboratory Reagent:

Employed as a standard reagent for chemical synthesis and analysis.

Food Packaging:

Used in active packaging materials to inhibit microbial growth and extend product shelf life.

Plastic and Polymer Industry:

Serves as a precursor in manufacturing benzoyl peroxide, a polymerization initiator.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Benzoic acid
Common/Trade Name: Benzoic Acid
CAS Number: 65-85-0
HS Code: 2915.11.00
Molecular Formula: C₇H₆O₂
Synonyms: Phenylformic acid, Carboxybenzene, E210 (food additive code)

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: White crystalline powder or granules
Color & Odor: White, faint aromatic odor
Melting Point: 122–123°C
Boiling Point: 249.2°C
Density: 1.32 g/cm³
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (~3.4 g/L at 20°C), soluble in ethanol, ether, and organic solvents
pH (1% aqueous solution): ~2.8 (acidic)
Vapor Pressure: 0.2 Pa at 25°C
Flash Point: 121°C
Autoignition Temperature: 428°C

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Skin irritant (Category 2), Eye irritant (Category 2A)
NFPA Ratings: Health 2, Flammability 1, Reactivity 0
Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL = 5 mg/m³ (respirable dust), ACGIH TLV = 5 mg/m³
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; incompatible with strong oxidizing agents
Incompatibilities: Strong oxidizers, strong bases, and reducing agents

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources
Container Type: Use tightly sealed containers made of corrosion-resistant materials
Shelf Life: Stable for years if stored properly
Special Handling: Avoid dust generation; use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and dust masks

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA (USA): Approved as food preservative (21 CFR 184.1029)
EFSA (EU): Approved food additive (E210)
OSHA: Regulated workplace chemical with exposure limits
Transportation: Non-hazardous under most regulations but requires proper packaging
Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local environmental regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Low to moderate toxicity to aquatic organisms; biodegradable
Persistence: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Biodegradable

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE: Wear gloves, safety goggles, and dust masks to prevent skin, eye, and respiratory exposure.
Dust Control: Use local exhaust ventilation and avoid dust accumulation.
Handling: Avoid inhalation and prolonged skin contact.
Storage: Keep containers tightly closed and away from incompatible substances.
Hygiene: Wash hands after handling; no eating, drinking, or smoking in the work area.

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory irritation or difficulty occurs.
Skin Contact: Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops.
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; consult a physician if irritation persists.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; seek medical advice if large amounts are swallowed.

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Combustible solid; emits toxic fumes of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide on burning.
Extinguishing Media: Use dry chemical powder, foam, or carbon dioxide. Avoid water spray which may spread the fire.
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective clothing.