DL-tartaric acid
Description
DL-tartaric acid (CAS 133-37-9) is the racemic form of tartaric acid, produced synthetically rather than derived from wine byproducts. It functions as an acidulant, pH buffer, and stabilizer across food, pharmaceutical, and personal care manufacturing.
In food and beverage production, it acidifies confectionery, baked goods, and soft drinks where a clean, tart flavor profile is required. Pharmaceutical formulators use it as a buffering agent in effervescent tablets and oral solutions.
Controlled pH directly affects active ingredient stability and dissolution rate in these medical applications. In personal care, it adjusts pH in creams, serums, and hair treatments, contributing to product stability and skin compatibility.
It also functions as a chelating agent in formulations where metal ion control is needed to prevent oxidative degradation. This versatility makes it a staple ingredient for manufacturers seeking consistent performance across diverse product lines.
DL-tartaric acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder or fine granules for easy handling. Food-grade material meeting FCC specifications is the most commonly sourced grade for acidulant applications in the industry.
Pharmaceutical-grade material conforming to USP and Ph.Eur. monographs is available for regulated manufacturing environments. These high-purity standards ensure the ingredient meets strict safety and quality requirements for global distribution.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 206 °C |
| Boiling Point | 191.59°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | 1.79 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 210 °C |
| Appearance | white crystalline powder |
| Color | White |
| Odor | at 100.00 %. very mild caramellic |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | soluble |
| Vapor Pressure | <0.1 hPa (20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.5860 (estimate) |
| pH | 1.6 (100g/l, H2O, 25℃) |
| Log P | -1.43 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29181200 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
2,3-Dihydroxybutanedioic acid|RefChem:935304|GlyTouCan:G35198MQ|G35198MQ|Butanedioic acid, 2,3-dihydroxy-, (2R,3R)-rel-|Tartaric acid, (±)-|Butanedioic acid, 2,3-dihydroxy-, (R*,R*)-(±)-
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