L-Lactic Acid CAS 79-33-4
Food Additives
2025-03-20
L-Lactic Acid (CAS 79-33-4) Overview
L-Lactic acid, also known as (S)-(+)-lactic acid or 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, is a natural organic acid with versatile applications. Below is a concise overview of its key properties and uses.
1. Basic Properties
| Parameter |
Details |
| CAS Number |
79-33-4 |
| Chemical Formula |
C₃H₆O₃ |
| Molecular Weight |
90.08 g/mol |
| Physical State |
Colorless or light-yellow hygroscopic liquid/solid |
| Density |
1.206 g/cm³ (25°C) |
| Melting Point |
52–54°C |
| Boiling Point |
125°C |
| Solubility |
Soluble in water, ethanol, ether; insoluble in chloroform, benzene |
2. Applications
| Field |
Uses |
| Food Industry |
Acidity regulator, preservative, flavor enhancer |
| Pharmaceuticals |
Intermediate for drugs (e.g., calcium lactate, sodium lactate) |
| Cosmetics |
pH adjuster, moisturizer, exfoliant |
| Agriculture |
Biodegradable pesticides, soil conditioner |
| Textiles |
Dyeing auxiliary, fabric softener |
| Leather Processing |
Deliming agent for high-quality leather |
| Bioplastics |
Precursor for polylactic acid (PLA) |
3. Safety & Handling
| Aspect |
Details |
| Safety Profile |
Mildly irritating to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract |
| Flammability |
Combustible; avoid heat, sparks, and open flames |
| Storage Conditions |
Store in a cool, dry place (<37°C); keep sealed and away from oxidizers |
| Emergency Response |
Rinse skin with soap and water; flush eyes with water for 15 minutes |
| Personal Protection |
Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing during handling |
4. Production & Availability
L-Lactic acid is primarily produced via fermentation of sugars (e.g., glucose, sucrose) using lactic acid bacteria. It is available in reagent-grade (98%+ purity) and industrial-grade forms, with global applications in sustainable materials and healthcare.
