Adipic Acid (Hexanedioic Acid)

   CAS No.: 124-04-9
   Synonyms / IUPAC Name: Adipic Acid, Hexanedioic Acid, 1,6‐Dicarboxyhexane
   Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₀O₄
   Molecular Weight: ~146.14 g/mol

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Appearance: White crystalline solid
• Odor: Odorless or practically odorless
• Melting Point: ~150.9 °C to ~153 °C
• Boiling Point: ~337.5 °C (at 101.3 kPa)
• Density (25 °C): ~1.36 g/cm³
• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (~22 g/L at 20 °C)
• Log P (octanol/water): ~0.093 (very low lipophilicity)
• Flash Point / Auto-ignition Temperature: Flash point ~196 °C; auto-ignition ~405 °C
• Other: In dust form, may present explosion hazard under air mixing conditions

Purity & Quality Standards

• Purity: Typically ≥ 99.0% for reagent/industrial grade
• Impurity Limits: Melting range 151–154 °C; heavy metals (as Pb) max ~0.0001% for high-purity grade
• Moisture / Water Content: Controlled; bulk material kept dry to prevent clumping
• Analytical Methods: GC, titration, HPLC as appropriate for specific grade
• Documentation: Certificate of Analysis (COA) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided per batch

Applications / Uses

• Key monomer for producing polyamide 6,6 (nylon) via reaction with hexamethylenediamine
• Intermediate in polyurethane, plasticizers, lubricants, adhesives, coatings, and sealants
• Used as acidity regulator (E355) in certain food applications (region-specific)
• Serves as a dicarboxylic acid building block in fine chemical synthesis

Safety & Handling

• Hazard Classification: Combustible solid; dust may form explosive mixtures with air
• Health Effects: May cause mild irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract if dust is generated
• Fire & Explosion: Dust lower explosive limit ~3.9% (dust in air)
• Precautions: Use in well-ventilated area; minimize dust generation; wear protective gloves and goggles; avoid strong oxidizers and incompatible materials
• First Aid Measures:
• Inhalation – Move to fresh air, seek medical attention if symptoms persist
• Skin – Wash thoroughly with soap and water
• Eyes – Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
• Ingestion – Rinse mouth and seek medical advice immediately

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Sealed bags or drums suitable for dry crystalline solids
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse away from moisture and contaminants
• Container Closure: Keep tightly sealed when not in use to maintain dryness
• Shelf Life: Typically 12–24 months under recommended storage conditions