Carbonic acid

Carbonic acid (CAS 463-79-6) is a weak inorganic acid formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, existing in equilibrium with dissolved CO2 in aqueous systems.

Where is Carbonic acid used?

• Water treatment: pH-regulating agent that adjusts alkalinity and controls scaling without introducing chloride or sulfate ions
• Food processing: mild acidulant
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: pH stabilization in parenteral formulations and effervescent tablet chemistry
• Agricultural irrigation: dosing lowers the pH of alkaline water, improving nutrient availability and preventing mineral deposits in drip lines
• Carbonated beverage production relies on dissolved CO2/carbonic acid equilibrium to deliver acidity and preservation in soft drinks, sparkling water, and beer.

Good to know: Carbonic acid is not isolable as a stable pure compound; commercial supply is CO2 gas or carbonated aqueous solutions. Food-grade material meets FCC and relevant pharmacopeial standards.

Commercial specifications

• Food-grade and technical-grade CO2 are the standard supply forms