Zinc citrate dihydrate
[CAS# 5990-32-9]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organometallic salt
• Name: Zinc citrate dihydrate
• Synonyms: Citric acid zinc salt dihydrate
• Molecular Formula: Zn3(C₆H₅O₇)₂.2(H₂O)
• Molecular Weight: 610.40
• CAS Registry Number: 5990-32-9
• EC Number: 620-299-7
• SMILES: C(C(=O)[O-])C(CC(=O)[O-])(C(=O)[O-])O.C(C(=O)[O-])C(CC(=O)[O-])(C(=O)[O-])O.O.O.[Zn+2].[Zn+2].[Zn+2]

Properties

• Solubility: Solubl (dilute mineral acids, alkali hydroxides)
• Melting point: 334 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS09 Warning
• Risk Statements: H319-H400-H410
• Safety Statements: P264+P265-P273-P280-P305+P351+P338-P337+P317-P391-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319

Discovery and Applications

Zinc citrate dihydrate is a compound formed from zinc and citric acid. Its discovery dates back to the mid-20th century when researchers were exploring the biological and industrial applications of various zinc salts. Zinc citrate itself has been known since the 1930s, but its dihydrate form (each zinc citrate molecule is bound to two water molecules) is particularly important due to its stability and enhanced solubility in aqueous solutions.

Zinc citrate dihydrate is widely used in dental care products. Due to its antimicrobial properties, it is a key ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes, helping to reduce plaque formation and control bad breath. Its ability to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria can effectively maintain oral hygiene and prevent gingivitis.

In dietary supplements, zinc citrate dihydrate is a source of zinc, an essential trace mineral that is critical for immune function, enzyme activity, and DNA synthesis. Zinc citrate is more easily absorbed by the body than other zinc compounds, making it a preferred choice in nutritional supplements designed to support overall health and strengthen the immune system.

In pharmaceuticals, zinc citrate dihydrate is used for its potential therapeutic benefits. It is included in formulations for treating zinc deficiency and supporting wound healing. Its bioavailability makes it suitable for use in a variety of pharmaceutical formulations.

In the food industry, zinc citrate dihydrate is used as a food additive and dietary fortifier. It is added to various foods to increase their zinc content, address dietary deficiencies, and improve the nutritional value of processed foods.

In addition to its health-related uses, zinc citrate dihydrate can also be used in the industrial sector. It is used in certain chemical processes and formulations where it acts as a zinc source and stabilizer.

References

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