Propionic Acid

(Also known as Propanoic Acid) 

Category: 

Carboxylic Acid / Preservative / Chemical Intermediate 

Description: 

Propionic Acid (C₃H₆O₂) is a clear, pungent-smelling, corrosive liquid organic acid. It naturally occurs in small quantities in dairy products and serves as an intermediate between acetic acid and butyric acid in structure and reactivity. It is widely used as a food preservative, mold inhibitor, and chemical intermediate. In industrial applications, propionic acid is utilized in the manufacture of herbicides, cellulose esters, pharmaceuticals, and plastics. 

Applications: 

1. Food & Feed Industry Used as a preservative and mold inhibitor in animal feed, grain storage, and bakery products. Prevents fungal and bacterial growth during storage. 

2. Chemical Intermediate Raw material for propionates, cellulose acetate propionate, and herbicides. Used in synthesis of flavoring agents, perfumes, and pharmaceuticals. 

3. Pharmaceutical Industry Intermediate in production of vitamins, anti-inflammatory drugs, and anesthetics. 

4. Plastics & Polymers Used in esterification reactions to produce plasticizers and resins. 

5. Herbicides & Pesticides Component in agrochemical formulations as a solvent and intermediate. 

Technical Details: 

Chemical Name - Propionic Acid 

Chemical Formula - C₃H₆O₂ 

Molecular Weight - 74.08 g/mol 

Appearance - Clear, colorless liquid 

Odor - Pungent, similar to acetic acid 

Purity - ≥ 99.5% 

Boiling Point - 141 °C 

Melting Point - (−21) °C 

Flash Point - 54 °C (closed cup) 

Density (at 25 °C) - 0.993 g/cm³ 

Solubility - Miscible with water, alcohol, and ether 

pKa - 4.87 

HS Code - 2915 50 00 

Stability - Stable under normal storage conditions 

Packaging: 

35 kg / 200 kg HDPE Drums 

IBC Tanks (1000 L) 

Bulk Tanker Loads (on request) 

Custom packaging available upon request 

Storage & Handling: Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated area, away from heat and incompatible substances like strong oxidizers. Keep containers tightly closed. Avoid prolonged skin or eye contact; use protective gear when handling.