Adipic acid
[CAS# 124-04-9]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Carboxylic compounds and derivatives >> Acyclic carboxylic acid
• Name: Adipic acid
• Synonyms: 1,4-Butanedicarboxylic acid; 1,6-Hexanedioic acid; Adipinic acid
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₀O₄
• Molecular Weight: 146.14
• CAS Registry Number: 124-04-9
• EC Number: 204-673-3
• FEMA: 2011
• SMILES: C(CCC(=O)O)CC(=O)O

Properties

• Density: 1.36 g/mL
• Melting point: 151-153 °C
• Boiling point: 337 °C
• Flash point: 196 °C
• Water solubility: 1.44 g/100 mL (15 °C)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H319
• Safety Statements: P264+P265-P280-P305+P351+P338-P337+P317

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319

Discovery and Applications

Adipic acid, discovered in 1836 by French chemist Auguste Laurent, is a dicarboxylic acid derived from the oxidation of fats and oils. Its name stems from the Latin *adeps*, meaning "fat." The commercial synthesis of adipic acid from cyclohexane was established in the early 20th century.

Adipic acid is crucial in the production of nylon-6,6, a strong and durable polymer used in textiles, automotive parts, and engineering plastics. Adipic acid serves as an acidulant and gelling agent in food products, enhancing flavor and texture.

Adipic acid derivatives, like dioctyl adipate (DOA), are used as plasticizers, imparting flexibility and durability to plastics like PVC. Adipic acid is used in creating polyurethane foams and resins, offering thermal insulation and cushioning properties.

Adipic acid acts as an excipient in pharmaceuticals, stabilizing tablet formulations and aiding in drug dissolution and absorption. Adipic acid contributes to the production of alkyd resins for coatings and adhesives, providing adhesion and weather resistance. Adipic acid is utilized in water treatment formulations as a component of corrosion and scale inhibitors, protecting water systems.

References

2007. Ruthenium-Catalyzed Oxidation of Alkenes, Alkynes, and Alcohols to Organic Acids with Aqueous Hydrogen Peroxide. Chemistry - An Asian Journal.
DOI: 10.1002/asia.200600091

2012. The dynamic viscoelasticity and water absorption characteristics of soft acrylic resin materials containing adipates and a maleate plasticizer. Dental Materials Journal.
DOI: 10.4012/dmj.2011-185

2024. Polymeric Nanocomposite Adsorbent of Cross-linked Chitosan-adipic Acid and SnO2 Nanoparticles for Adsorption of Methyl Orange Dye: Isotherms, Kinetics, and Response Surface Methodology. Journal of Polymers and the Environment.
DOI: 10.1007/s10924-024-03453-9