Propionic Acid
| Formula: | C₃H₆O₂ |
| CAS Number: | 79-09-4 |
| EC Number (EINECS): | 200-872-2 |
| HS Code: | 29152900 |
| UN Number: | 2810 |
| IUPAC Name: | Propanoic Acid |
| Also Known As: | Ethylformic Acid; Propionic Acid Glacial |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | 74.08 |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | Colorless to slightly yellow liquid |
| Odor: | Pungent, sour |
| Melting Point, °C: | -20 |
| Boiling Point, °C: | 141 |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | 0.993 |
| Flash Point, °C: | 105 (closed cup) |
| Refractive Index (20°C): | 1.385 |
| Solubility: | Miscible with water and most organic solvents |
| pH (1% solution): | ~2.5 |
| Purity, %: | ≥99.0 |
| Grades Available: | Glacial, Technical, Food Grade (FCC) |
| Packaging: | 25kg drums, 200kg drums, 1000kg IBC, bulk |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
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Preservative and mold inhibitor in food (E280)
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Raw material in production of cellulose derivatives, herbicides, and perfumes
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Production of propionates and esters used in flavorings and coatings
Secondary Applications
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Intermediate for pharmaceuticals and veterinary drugs
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Used in plastics, textiles, and rubber processing
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Feed additive in livestock industry
End Industries Served: Food & Beverage, Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Feed, Polymers, Textiles
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Flammable liquid (Category 3), Skin Corrosive (Category 1B)
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
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H226: Flammable liquid and vapor
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H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
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H335: May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
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P210: Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames
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P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection
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P301 + P330 + P331: IF SWALLOWED – rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting
Storage Conditions
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Store in cool, ventilated place away from heat and ignition sources
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Keep containers tightly closed
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Protect from moisture
Transport Information
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ADR/RID: Class 8, UN2810, PG II
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IMDG: Class 8, UN2810
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IATA: Class 8, UN2810