Cinnamic Acid About
Cinnamic acid is an organic compound with the molecular formula CHO or CHCH=CHCOOH. Structurally, it consists of a phenyl ring attached to an unsaturated carboxylic acid chain (an acrylic acid group). It exists as two geometric isomers, but the commercially and naturally dominant form is the trans-isomer (E-isomer).
Versatile Industrial ApplicationsCinnamic Acid is integral across many industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and plastics. It enhances taste and fragrance in toothpastes and soaps, while its role in organic synthesis makes it invaluable for manufacturing dyes, intermediates, and additives. Its ability to serve as a UV-blocker and photo-resistant polymer makes it an important ingredient in paints and printing inks as well.
Key Chemical and Physical PropertiesThis compound, with CAS No. 140-10-3, presents as a powder and has a density of 1.25 g/cm3 at 4C. The melting point ranges from 132C to 135C, and it boils at 300C. Cinnamic Acid is sparingly soluble in cold water (0.4 g/L at 20C), but dissolves readily in hot water, alcohol, and ether-making it practical for diverse manufacturing processes.
FAQ's of Cinnamic Acid:
Q: How is Cinnamic Acid typically used in the industrial and food sectors?
A: Cinnamic Acid acts as a precursor in the production of the aspartame sweetener in the food industry and serves in industrial applications as a photo-resistant polymer additive, UV-absorber, and for synthesizing various dyes and laboratory reagents.
Q: What benefits does Cinnamic Acid offer in pharmaceutical manufacturing?
A: In pharmaceuticals, Cinnamic Acid is a foundational block for synthesizing drug intermediates and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), contributing to the development and improvement of a wide range of medicinal compounds.
Q: When should Cinnamic Acid be added during product formulation processes?
A: Cinnamic Acid is typically incorporated during the initial or intermediate stages of product formulation to function as a precursor or intermediate, particularly in chemical synthesis, food sweetener production, and polymer creation.
Q: Where is this compound commonly stocked or stored?
A: Cinnamic Acid should be stored at room temperature, in tightly sealed containers, within environments compliant with safety and quality standards, such as chemical warehouses or production facilities.
Q: What is the process involved in the organic synthesis using Cinnamic Acid?
A: Cinnamic Acid is employed as a building block in organic synthesis for producing cinnamate esters, indigo dyes, and complex laboratory reagents-often involving heating with solvents or reactants under controlled conditions.
Q: How does its pH and solubility influence usage in product formulations?
A: With a pH ranging from 3.0 to 4.0, and its sparing solubility in cold water but greater solubility in organic solvents, Cinnamic Acid is suited for formulations where acid stability and compatibility with organic phases are essential.