Synonyms: Acid C3; Propanoic acid; Propanyl acid
CAS Number: 79-09-4
Formula: C3H6O2
Formula Weight: 74.08
Linear Formula: CH3CH2COOH
MDL No.: MFCD00002756
Purity: >=99.5%
Boiling Point: 141 C(lit.)
Melting Point: -24--23 C (lit.)
Density: 0.993 g/mL at 25 C(lit.)
Refractive Index: n20/D 1.386(lit.)
Beilstein Registry Number: 506071
EC Number: 201-176-3
UNSPSC Code: 12352100
General description: Propionic acid (PA) also known as propanoic acid is a short chain fatty acid mainly used as food preservative. It is one of the main metabolic end product formed during the fermentation of undigested food in the colon by the microbiota. Its manufacture by glycerol/glucose co-fermentation using Propionibacterium acidipropionici has been reported. Crystal structure study reveals that PA crystals are monoclinic with space group P21/c.
General description: Propionic acid (PA) is a naturally occurring carboxylic acid, which in its pure state exists as a colorless corrosive liquid with an unpleasant odor. It is miscible in water. Industrially it is produced by hydrocarboxylation of ethylene in presence nickel carbonyl as a catalyst. PA has been found to reduce food intake, lower the fatty acids content in plasma and liver, might improve tissue insulin sensitivity and exerts immunosuppressive actions. Propionic acid is an excellent raw material as it is stable, cheap and safe and can even be used as a food additive.
Application: Propionic acid may be used to alter limestone in order to increase its ability of CO2 uptake.
RTECS: UE595000
RIDADR: UN3463 - class 3 - Propionic acid
WGK Germany: 1
Flash Point(F): 129.2 F
Flash Point(C): 54 C
R Codes: 10-34-37
S Codes: 23-36-45
IOD Codes: C
Symbol: GHS02, GHS05, GHS07
Signal Word: Danger
Hazard Statements: H226-H314-H335
Precautionary statements: P210-P260-P280-P303 + P361 + P353-P305 + P351 + P338-P370 + P378