Methyl Paraben Extra Pure
Methyl Paraben Extra Pure is a high-purity chemical widely used as a preservative in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, personal care products, and food applications. It is valued for its strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties, helping to extend the shelf life of various formulations by preventing the growth of bacteria and mold. In laboratories, it is commonly employed in microbiological media and analytical standards. Its excellent stability across a broad pH range, combined with low toxicity and high efficacy even at low concentrations, makes it a preferred choice in sensitive applications. This extra pure grade ensures consistent quality and performance for critical uses.
Methyl Paraben Extra Pure
Primary Uses:
- Preservative in Pharmaceuticals – Commonly used to prevent microbial growth in liquid, semi-solid, and solid drug formulations.
- Cosmetic Preservative – Widely employed in lotions, creams, shampoos, and makeup to extend shelf life by inhibiting bacteria and fungi.
Secondary Uses:
- Food Additive (when of food-grade) – Occasionally used as a preservative in food products, though regulated in many countries.
- Analytical Standard – Used in laboratories for HPLC analysis and quality control testing of preservatives.
- Personal Care Formulation Testing – Evaluated in research labs for stability and efficacy in new product development.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Methyl Paraben
- IUPAC Name: Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate
- CAS Number: 99-76-3
- Molecular Formula: C₈H₈O₃
- Molecular Weight: 152.15 g/mol
- Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Odor: Faint, characteristic odor
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; freely soluble in alcohol and ether
- Grade: Extra Pure
- Melting Point: 125–128 °C
2. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under normal laboratory use
- Hazard Statements:
- May cause mild skin and eye irritation
- Precautionary Statements:
- P280: Wear protective gloves and safety glasses
- P264: Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Lab coat
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with plenty of water
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth and seek medical attention if symptoms develop
- Fire Hazards:
- Flammability: May be combustible at high temperatures
- Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, foam, CO₂, or water spray
3. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in tightly sealed container
- Keep in cool, dry, and well-ventilated place
- Protect from moisture and light
- Handling Tips:
- Minimize dust generation
- Use in fume hood if fine dust is present
4. Laboratory Applications
- Primary Uses:
- Preservative in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations
- Reference material in quality control and analytical chemistry
- Secondary Uses:
- Antifungal and antibacterial agent in lab media
- Research in organic synthesis and stability studies
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear a lab coat, nitrile gloves, and safety goggles.
- Use a dust mask or work in a fume hood if dust is generated.
Handling:
- Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
- Prevent formation of dust and avoid inhalation.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Keep the container tightly sealed and protected from light and moisture.
- Keep away from oxidizing agents.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move to fresh air immediately.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
- Wash with soap and plenty of water.
- Remove contaminated clothing.
- Seek medical attention if irritation develops.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for several minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Seek medical advice if irritation continues.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek medical assistance if discomfort occurs.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Combustible at high temperatures.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use dry chemicals, CO₂, foam, or water spray.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May emit carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide upon decomposition.
Firefighter Protection:
- Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.