Betaine Hydrochloride, Betain HCL, 590-46-5

Betaine Hydrochloride, Betaine HCL, 590-46-5

Chemical Identity

• Name: Betaine Hydrochloride

• Molecular Formula: C₅H₁₂ClNO₂

• Molecular Weight: 153.61 g/mol

• CAS Number: 590-46-5

• EINECS: 209-683-1

• IUPAC Name: 1-Carboxy-N,N,N-trimethylmethanaminium chloride

• Synonyms:

  • Betaine HCl

  • Acinorm

  • Acipepsol

  • Acidol-Pepsin

  • Aciventral forte

  • Betaine chloride

  • Ammonium (carboxymethyl)trimethyl-, chloride

  • Carboxy-N,N,N-trimethylmethanaminium chloride

Physico-Chemical Properties

• Appearance: White to yellowish crystalline powder

• Color: Colorless to white

• Density: 1.29 g/cm³ (20 °C)

• Melting Point: 241–242 °C (lit.)

• Specific Rotation (α): -29.51 (H₂O)

• Water Solubility: 64.7 g/100 mL (25 °C)

• Solubility: Easily soluble in water and ethanol; poorly soluble in ether and chloroform

• pH: ~1 (50 g/L in water, 20 °C)

• Vapor Pressure: 0 Pa at 25 °C

• Storage Condition: Room temperature, tightly sealed (moisture-sensitive)

• Autoignition Temperature: ~400 °C

Functional Role

• Methyl donor: Works with folic acid, vitamin B12, SAMe, and choline in methylation reactions.

• Liver support: Important for detoxification, lipid metabolism, and carnitine synthesis.

• Kidney protection: Helps reduce renal stress and damage.

• Digestive aid: Increases stomach acidity, improving protein digestion and mineral absorption.

• Osmoprotectant: Buffers ion balance, supports nutrient absorption in animals.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical / Medical:

  • Gastrointestinal function regulator (hypochlorhydria treatment).

  • Supports liver function and detoxification.

  • Promotes mineral and nutrient absorption.

  • Not recommended with NSAIDs or corticosteroids (risk of gastric ulcer).

• Food / Nutraceuticals:

  • Used as a fortifier in cereals, dairy, and functional foods.

  • Supplement for individuals with low stomach acid.

• Animal Feed:

  • Efficient methyl donor, partially replacing methionine and choline chloride.

  • Improves nutrient absorption and growth in poultry and livestock.

  • Protects stability of vitamins A and B in premixes.

• Industrial / Chemical:

  • Organic synthesis, resin treatment, welding additives.

  • Amphoteric surfactant in chemical formulations.

Risk and Safety

• Hazard Codes:

  • R36: Irritating to eyes

  • R36/37/38: Irritating to eyes, respiratory system, and skin

  • R20/21/22: Harmful if inhaled, in contact with skin, or swallowed

• Safety Precautions:

  • S26: In case of eye contact, rinse with plenty of water and seek medical advice

  • S24/25: Avoid contact with skin and eyes

  • S36: Wear suitable protective clothing

  • S39: Wear eye/face protection

• WGK Germany: 3 (water hazard classification)

• Toxicity: LD50 (oral, rat) > 5000 mg/kg → low acute toxicity