Acetylsalicylic acid
Description
Acetylsalicylic acid (CAS 50-78-2) is a synthetic salicylate derivative used across pharmaceutical manufacturing, personal care formulation, and specialty chemical applications. It functions primarily as an active pharmaceutical ingredient and chemical intermediate.
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, ASA is the active ingredient in analgesic, antipyretic, and antiplatelet solid dosage forms. These include tablets, effervescent formulations, and coated pellets for various medical applications.
Personal care formulators incorporate it as a keratolytic and preservation-supporting agent in exfoliating creams and scalp treatments. It is also frequently utilized in the production of anti-dandruff products and skin care solutions.
As a chemical intermediate, it serves in the synthesis of salicylate-based compounds where controlled acetylation is required. This versatility makes it a staple in industrial chemical synthesis and laboratory research.
In food-contact and specialty applications, its antioxidant and mild acidulant properties support stabilization in defined regulatory frameworks. It plays secondary roles in preservation and pH-related formulation work across industries.
Acetylsalicylic acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder in pharmaceutical and technical grades. USP, BP, and Ph.Eur. specifications are standard for pharmaceutical procurement and quality assurance.
Particle size distribution is often specified for tableting or coating processes to ensure manufacturing efficiency. Bulk quantities are available for industrial buyers requiring consistent material for large-scale production runs.
Pharma-grade material typically requires full documentation including CoA and residual solvent profiles. This ensures compliance with global safety standards and rigorous quality control protocols for sensitive applications.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 135 °C |
| Boiling Point | 140 °C |
| Density | 1.40 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 250 °C |
| Appearance | Acetylsalicylic acid is a white crystalline solid with a slightly bitter taste. It is odorless but hydrolyzes in moist air to give an acetic acid odor |
| Color | white |
| Form | crystalline |
| Water Solubility | 3.3 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Refractive Index | 1.4500 (estimate) |
| Log P | 1.190 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29182200 |
| UN Number | 1851 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
2-acetyloxybenzoic acid|Aspirin|ASA
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