Organic Acids
REACH
p-coumaric acid
CAS Number
7400-08-0
EC Number
231-000-0
What is p-coumaric acid?
p-Coumaric acid (CAS 7400-08-0), also recognized commercially as p-hydroxycinnamic acid, is a naturally occurring hydroxycinnamic acid sourced from plant extracts or produced synthetically for industrial supply.
Where is p-coumaric acid used?
- Pharmaceutical synthesis: key intermediate in the production of active compounds, including resveratrol analogs and other polyphenolic APIs
- Nutraceutical and functional food: plant-derived antioxidant in dietary supplements, botanical extracts and standardized herbal preparations
- Cosmetics: UV-absorbing and antioxidant properties for sunscreen actives, anti-aging serums and skin-brightening products
- Food manufacturers also evaluate it as a natural antioxidant stabilizer in specialty food and beverage applications.
Commercial specifications
- Technical grade for industrial synthesis; higher-purity grades including USP-aligned and research-grade specifications
- Packaging from small quantities for development to bulk quantities
Other Names (Synonyms)
p-hydroxyphenylacrylic acid|p-hydroxycinnamic acid|beta-[4-hydroxyphenyl]acrylic acid|4'-hydroxycinnamic acid|3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acrylic acid|3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoic acid|para-coumaric acid|trans-p-Coumaric acid
What are the physical properties of p-coumaric acid?
Melting Point 211.5 °C
Boiling Point 251.61°C (rough estimate)
Density 1.2132 (rough estimate)
Appearance Light yellow to beige crystalline powder
Color White to Off-White
Form Solid
Refractive Index 1.5380 (estimate)
Log P 1.790
How is p-coumaric acid classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant GHS05· Corrosive GHS06· Toxic
Hazard Statements
H301 Toxic if swallowed
H311 Toxic in contact with skin
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H315 Causes skin irritation
Precautionary Statements
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P262 Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to p-coumaric acid?
HS Code 2918 29 00
Storage Class 11 - Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany) 2