Fumaric Acid Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Fumaric Acid Extra Pure is a white crystalline organic compound known for its use as a food acidulant, a chemical intermediate, and a reagent in laboratory analysis. This trans-isomer of butenedioic acid plays a significant role in the Krebs cycle and is commonly used in biochemical and pharmaceutical research. In laboratories, it serves as a standard for titrations and a pH modifier in formulations. Its excellent stability, solubility in alcohol, and high purity make it suitable for precision applications, including quality control testing, analytical chemistry, and synthesis of esters and resins.
USES
Primary Laboratory Uses:
- Biochemical research:
Used in studies of the citric acid (Krebs) cycle, as fumaric acid is a key intermediate involved in cellular respiration. - pH adjustment and buffer systems:
Acts as a mild acidulant or buffer component in analytical and biological experiments due to its stable, weakly acidic properties.
Secondary Laboratory Uses:
- Pharmaceutical formulation testing:
Employed in solubility and stability testing of active pharmaceutical ingredients under acidic conditions. - Polymer and resin research:
Used in experiments related to alkyd resin or polyester synthesis, especially in cross-linking studies. - Food chemistry and simulation:
Utilized in food additive research and as a control substance in studies involving acidity regulators.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Fumaric Acid
- Other Names: Trans-butenedioic acid
- Chemical Formula: C₄H₄O₄
- CAS Number: 110-17-8
- Molecular Weight: 116.07 g/mol
- Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory Reagent Grade)
- Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Odor: Odorless
- Taste: Sour, acidic
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Melting Point: ~287 °C (with decomposition)
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol and ether
- pKa values: ~3.0 and ~4.4
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
- Stability: Stable under standard lab conditions
- Isomerism: Trans-isomer of maleic acid
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Classification (GHS):
⚠️ Irritant - Hazard Statements:
- H319: Causes serious eye irritation
- H335: May cause respiratory irritation
- PPE Requirements:
- Lab coat
- Gloves (nitrile or latex)
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask if powder handling is excessive
- First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if large amounts ingested
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store tightly sealed in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area
- Keep container tightly closed
- Protect from moisture and strong bases
- Handling Notes:
- Avoid inhalation of dust
- Use in a fume hood if dust generation is significant
- Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin exposure
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Food/Pharma Relevance:
- GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) in food applications (non-lab grade)
- Listed in FCC and pharmacopeias for appropriate grades
- Labeling Compliance:
- GHS-compliant labeling required for lab-grade use
- Not listed as a carcinogen or environmentally hazardous
6. Laboratory Applications
- Primary Uses:
- Acidulant in analytical chemistry
- Buffering agent in pH adjustment and titration
- Used in organic synthesis and esterification studies
- Secondary Uses:
- Antioxidant testing and polymer crosslinking studies
- Research on unsaturated dicarboxylic acids
- Referencing standard in spectroscopy or chromatography
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear a lab coat, nitrile gloves, and protective goggles.
- Use a dust mask or work in a fume hood if powder is airborne.
Handling:
- Avoid inhalation of dust or contact with skin and eyes.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using this product.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
- Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
- Keep away from incompatible substances such as strong bases and oxidizing agents.
- Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Remove the person to fresh air.
- Seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
- Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
- Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
- Get medical advice if irritation occurs.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Continue rinsing and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Not highly flammable, but fine dust may form explosive mixtures with air.
- May burn if involved in a fire.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use dry chemical, CO₂, or foam.
- Water spray can be used to cool containers but may spread dust.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May emit carbon oxides (CO, CO₂) under fire conditions.
Firefighter Protection:
- Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.
- Avoid inhalation of fumes or dust during firefighting.