Citric Acid Monohydrate Extra Pure
Citric Acid Monohydrate Extra Pure is a highly refined, crystalline organic acid commonly used in laboratory settings for its chelating, buffering, and acidifying properties. With one molecule of water of crystallization, it serves as a reliable pH adjuster and complexing agent in analytical chemistry, titrations, and biochemical experiments. Its extra pure grade ensures minimal contaminants, making it suitable for sensitive applications in pharmaceutical research, food analysis, and preparation of reagent solutions. Soluble in water and ethanol, it is stable under normal lab conditions but should be stored in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed containers to prevent clumping and moisture absorption.
Primary Uses
Buffer Preparation
Commonly used to prepare citrate buffers for maintaining acidic to neutral pH (3.0–6.2) in biochemical and analytical experiments.
Chelating Agent
Binds to metal ions like Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, and Fe³⁺ in complexometric titrations or metal ion removal experiments.
Standard for Titration
Used in acid-base titration to calibrate alkaline solutions or as a primary standard in volumetric analysis.
pH Adjustment
Added to experimental media and solutions to adjust and stabilize pH, especially in microbial and enzymatic studies.
Secondary Uses
Analytical Reagent
Employed in colorimetric tests or precipitation reactions involving metal ions.
Carbon Source in Microbiology
Serves as an organic carbon source in selective culture media for microbial growth.
Cleaning Agent in Laboratory Equipment
Helps remove limescale or metal salt deposits from lab glassware or metal instruments without the use of strong acids.
Precursor for Citrate Salts
Used in the synthesis of other laboratory-grade chemicals like sodium citrate or ammonium citrate.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name: Citric Acid Monohydrate
CAS Number: 5949-29-1
HS Code: 2918.14.00
Molecular Formula: C₆H₈O₇·H₂O
Molecular Weight: 210.14 g/mol
Synonyms: 2-Hydroxy-1,2,3-propane-tricarboxylic acid monohydrate
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
Appearance: Colorless to white crystalline powder
Odor: Odorless
Taste: Strongly acidic (sour)
Solubility: Freely soluble in water (59 g/100 mL at 20°C), soluble in ethanol
Melting Point: ~100°C (decomposes with loss of water)
Density: ~1.542 g/cm³
pH (1% solution): ~2.2
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification:
H319: Causes serious eye irritation
NFPA Ratings:
Health: 1
Flammability: 0
Reactivity: 0
First Aid Measures:
Inhalation: Move to fresh air, rinse nose with water
Skin/Eyes: Rinse thoroughly with water for several minutes
Ingestion: Rinse mouth and drink water; generally regarded as safe in small quantities
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
Keep container tightly closed and protected from moisture
Container Type: Polyethylene or HDPE jars, fiber drums with liners
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions
Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizers, strong bases
Shelf Life: 2–3 years (if kept dry and sealed)
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Hazard Symbols:
EINECS Number: 201-069-1
FDA Status: GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe)
E Number: E330 (Food additive)
6. Applications in Laboratory & Industry
Laboratory Use:
Buffering agent
Standard acid in titrations
pH adjustment in biochemical experiments
Other Industries:
Food & Beverage: Flavoring agent, preservative
Cosmetics: pH regulator, antioxidant
Pharmaceuticals: Effervescent formulations
Cleaning Products: Lime scale remover, chelating agent
PPE Required:
Lab coat
Safety goggles
Nitrile gloves
Dust mask (if powder is airborne)
Handling:
Avoid inhaling dust.
Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin exposure.
Handle in a well-ventilated area or under fume hood if in powder form.
Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Storage:
Store in a tightly sealed container.
Keep in a cool, dry place away from strong bases or oxidizing agents.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air.
Seek medical advice if irritation persists.
Skin Contact:
Wash with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Seek medical attention if skin becomes irritated.
Eye Contact:
Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes.
Keep eyelids open and move eyes around during flushing.
Get medical attention if irritation continues.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Drink water to dilute.
Usually not harmful in small quantities, but seek medical advice if discomfort occurs.
FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
Not flammable under normal conditions, but combustible in powder form.
Suitable Extinguishers:
Dry chemical
CO₂
Water spray
Foam
Fire Hazards:
Combustion may release CO, CO₂, and irritating fumes.
Fine dust may form explosive mixtures with air.
Firefighting Gear:
Wear full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).