Tartaric Acid
High purity organic acid
Overview
Tartaric Acid (CAS No: 87-69-4) is an organic acid naturally found in many fruits, especially grapes. Known in the food industry by the code E334, this acid plays an important role in wine production and is used in various industrial applications.
Tartaric acid is an optically active compound, with the L(+)-tartaric acid form being the most common. It is soluble in water, alcohol, and acetone. It is a versatile acid widely used in food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries.
Applications
Tartaric Acid has a wide range of industrial and commercial applications:
Food Industry
Used as an acid regulator (E334), flavor enhancer, and antioxidant. Used in confectionery, beverages, and bakery products.
Wine Production
Used to regulate acidity and balance taste in wine. Also helps prevent tartrate precipitation in wine.
Pharmaceutical
Used in drug formulations, effervescent tablets, and to enhance solubility of certain drugs in acidic environments.
Cosmetics
Used as pH regulator and peeling agent in skin care products. Also acts as stabilizer in creams and lotions.
Chemical Industry
Used in metal cleaning, textile dyes, and catalyst production. Also used as raw material in synthesis of tartrate salts.
Other Applications
Used for various purposes in photography, leather tanning, and electroplating industries.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₄H₆O₆ | - | - |
| CAS Number | 87-69-4 (L(+)-form) | - | - |
| EC No | 201-766-0 | - | - |
| Molecular Weight | 150.09 | g/mol | - |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder | - | Visual |
| Odor | Odorless | - | - |
| Density (25°C) | 1.76 | g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Melting Point | 171-174 | °C | ASTM D1015 |
| Specific Rotation [α]D20 | +12.0° to +13.0° | - | USP |
| Water Solubility (20°C) | 1390 | g/L | ASTM E1148 |
| pH Value (0.1M sol.) | 2.0 | - | ASTM E70 |
| Purity | ≥99.5% | % | USP |
| Ash Content | ≤0.05 | % | ASTM D482 |
| Heavy Metal Content (Pb) | ≤10 | ppm | USP |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤2 | ppm | USP |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤3 | ppm | USP |
Safety Information
Hazard Symbols and Statements
Irritant Health Hazard
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Acid-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Dust mask (in high concentrations)
- Chemical goggles or face shield
- Lab coat or protective clothing
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
- Keep in original packaging, tightly closed
- Storage temperature: 15-30°C
- Keep away from bases and oxidizing agents
- Protect from moisture
Fire Fighting
- Suitable extinguishers: Water spray, dry chemical, CO₂
- Toxic gases (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide) may be released during fire
- Firefighting personnel should use appropriate respiratory protection
Handling and Storage
Transportation
- Ensure containers are tightly closed
- Transport separately from oxidizing agents and bases
- Protect from moisture during transport
- Keep neutralizing material available for spill situations
- Provide adequate ventilation in transport vehicles
Storage
- Store in polyethylene, stainless steel, or enameled containers
- Display appropriate signs in storage areas
- Keep acid neutralizing material in storage areas
- Provide secondary containment when storing large quantities
- Storage shelves should be made of corrosion-resistant material
Spill Response Measures
- Evacuate exposed personnel from the area
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment
- Clean up without raising dust
- Contain spill with sand, sodium bicarbonate or other neutralizing materials
- Wash contaminated area thoroughly with water
Regulatory Information
GHS Classification
- Skin Irritation Category 2
- Serious Eye Damage Category 1
- Respiratory Tract Irritation Category 3
Important Regulations
- FDA: GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status
- EFSA: Approved as food additive (E334)
- REACH: Registered
- USP: Meets pharmaceutical quality standards
Food Compliance Certificates
- FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) compliant
- Kosher certified (optional)
- Halal certified (optional)
- GMO-free
Environmental Information
Environmental Impact
Tartaric acid shows low toxicity in aquatic environments. It may be harmful to aquatic life at high concentrations. Easily decomposes in soil and is biodegradable.
Biodegradation
- Air: Degrades through photochemical reactions
- Water: Rapidly degrades by microbial activity (>90% within 28 days)
- Soil: Rapidly degrades by microbial activity
Waste Management
- Not classified as hazardous waste
- Can be disposed of by neutralization at licensed waste disposal facilities
- Should not be discharged into sewers or surface waters
- Dispose of in accordance with local regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is tartaric acid naturally found?
Tartaric acid is naturally found in many fruits, especially grapes, bananas, and citrus fruits. The highest concentrations are found in ripe grapes and particularly in tartar (potassium bitartrate) crystals formed during winemaking.
Why is tartaric acid used in foods?
Tartaric acid is used in foods as an acidity regulator (E334), flavor enhancer, and antioxidant. It has a sour taste and helps extend the shelf life of foods. It is also used as a leavening agent in effervescent products.
What is the difference between tartaric acid and citric acid?
Although both are organic acids, tartaric acid has a sharper and more sour taste. While citric acid is derived from citrus fruits, tartaric acid is typically derived from grapes. Tartaric acid is preferred in the wine industry because it is one of the natural acids in wine.
Is tartaric acid harmful to health?
Food-grade tartaric acid is considered safe when consumed in recommended doses. However, when taken in high doses, it may cause stomach discomfort and damage tooth enamel. It may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
What should I do if tartaric acid contacts the skin?
Remove contaminated clothing immediately and wash skin with plenty of water and soap for at least 15 minutes. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. In case of eye contact, wash eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention.