CITRIC ACID (ANHYDROUS)
CAS 77-92-9
Chemical Formula C6H8O7
Molecular Weight 192.13 g/mol
Citric acid (anhydrous) is a naturally occurring organic acid found in citrus fruits. It is a colorless, crystalline substance commonly used in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Citric acid is a strong acid with many applications, including as a preservative, flavor enhancer, and pH adjuster. The anhydrous form of citric acid is a more concentrated, water-free version, typically used in industrial and laboratory applications.
Industrial Uses
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Food and Beverage Industry :
- Citric acid is widely used in the food and beverage industry as a preservative, acidulant, and flavor enhancer. It is used to adjust pH levels, stabilize products, and enhance the tartness of foods and drinks. Common products include soft drinks, fruit juices, candies, jams, and gelatins.
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Cosmetics and Personal Care :
- In cosmetics and personal care products, citric acid is used to balance pH and improve product stability. It is included in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and facial cleansers for its exfoliating and skin-toning properties.
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Pharmaceuticals :
- In cosmetics and personal care products, citric acid is used to balance pH and improve product stability. It is included in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and facial cleansers for its exfoliating and skin-toning properties.
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Cleaning Products :
- Due to its acidic nature, citric acid is effective in removing lime scale, hard water deposits, and other mineral buildups. It is included in household cleaners, descaling agents, and dishwashing products.
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Industrial Applications :
- Citric acid is used in various industrial applications, including the manufacturing of detergents, textiles, and dyes. It is also used in the production of biodegradable plastics and as a chelating agent in metalworking.
Specifications
| CAS No | 77-92-9 |
|---|---|
| EC Number | 201-069-1 |
| Composition | Citric acid is composed of three carboxyl groups and one hydroxyl group, making it a tribasic acid. The anhydrous form refers to citric acid without water molecules in its crystalline structure. |
| Molecular Weight | 192.13 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula | C6H8O7 |
| Form | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Color | White to off-white |
| Odor | Odorless or faintly characteristic |
| Melting point | 153°C (307.4°F) |
| Density | 175°C (decomposes before boiling) |
| Density | 1.665 g/cm³ |
| Flash point | Not flammable |
| Ignition temperature | Not applicable |