3-Hydroxybutyric Acid

3-Hydroxybutyric Acid (CAS 26063-00-3) is a bio-based building block and the monomer unit of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), used to produce biodegradable thermoplastics and specialty polymers.

Where is 3-Hydroxybutyric Acid used?

• Plastics and packaging: structural monomer for PHB-based biopolymers
• Compostable films, rigid containers and biodegradable packaging materials
• Biotechnology: fermentation-derived intermediate for scaling microbial polyester production
• Printing and packaging substrates: rheology modification in bio-based coatings, improving flow and film-forming consistency
• Plasticizer systems adjust flexibility and processability of biopolymer blends
• It functions as a polymerization precursor and plasticizing agent in polymer systems for sustainable materials.

Good to know: Controlled monomer purity directly affects polymer molecular weight and mechanical performance. Life sciences applications may require higher-purity specifications with documented analytical testing.

Commercial specifications

• Purity typically 95% to 98%+
• Liquid solution or crystalline solid, with concentration and purity specifications