Tannic Acid
Description
Tannic Acid (CAS 1401-55-4), commercially sourced as tannins, is a plant-derived polyphenolic compound used across food, industrial, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It functions primarily as a chelating agent, astringent, and protein precipitant.
This versatile compound is applicable in processes ranging from clarification and coagulation to flavor modification and surface treatment. In food and beverage production, it acts as a fining agent for wines, beers, and fruit juices.
By binding proteins and colloids, it significantly improves clarity in liquid products. Leather tanneries rely on it to cross-link collagen fibers in hides, producing firm, durable leather with consistent surface quality.
Water treatment operations use its coagulation properties to precipitate heavy metals and suspended solids from industrial effluents. This makes it an essential component for environmental management and industrial waste processing.
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it serves as an excipient and active component in topical formulations targeting skin conditions requiring astringent action. It is supplied as a light yellow to tan powder for easy handling.
Liquid extract forms are also available for specific industrial applications. Standard grades include food-grade material meeting FCC specifications and pharmaceutical-grade material aligned with USP and BP standards.
Technical-grade material is available for leather processing, textile dyeing, and water treatment applications. These grades are suitable where food or pharma compliance is not required for the specific manufacturing process.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 200 °C |
| Boiling Point | 862.78°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | 1.2965 (rough estimate) |
| Flash Point | 198°C |
| Appearance | white or light yellow powder |
| Color | Yellow to light brown |
| Odor | Slight in solution, typical tannic acid |
| Form | Powder/Solid |
| Water Solubility | 250 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Refractive Index | 1.7040 (estimate) |
| pH | 3.5 (100g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| Log P | 13.327 (est) |
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 32019090 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Documentation
Other Names
Tannins
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