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Send EmailCitric Acid, Citric Acid Anhydrate, Citric Acid Anhydrous, Citric Acid Monohydrate, 77-92-9, E330, 5949-29-1
Chemical Name: Citric Acid, 2-Hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid
Synonyms: Anhydrous Citric Acid, Citrate, 2-Hydroxytricarballylic Acid, 3-Carboxy-3-hydroxypentane-1,5-dioic acid, β-Hydroxytricarballylic Acid
CAS Numbers:
Anhydrous: 77-92-9
Monohydrate: 5949-29-1
EC Number (EINECS): 201-069-1
Molecular Formulas:
Anhydrous: C₆H₈O₇
Monohydrate: C₆H₈O₇·H₂O
Molecular Weights:
Anhydrous: 192.12 g/mol
Monohydrate: 210.14 g/mol
E Number: E330 (food additive)
Chemical Class: Organic tricarboxylic acid (weak acid)
HS Code: 2918.14
UN Number: Not regulated (non-hazardous for transport)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White, odorless, crystalline powder or colorless crystals |
| Physical state (20°C) | Solid (crystalline) |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Taste | Sour, acidic (characteristic citrus taste) |
| Density (20°C) | 1.665 g/cm³ |
| Bulk density (typical) | 0.8–0.9 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 153–159°C (decomposes) |
| Boiling point | Decomposes (≈310°C) |
| Flash point | Not flammable (non-combustible) |
| Vapor pressure | Negligible |
| Refractive index (nD20) | 1.493–1.509 |
| Particle size | Variable (10–100 μm typical for fine powder) |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White, odorless, crystalline powder or colorless crystals |
| Physical state (20°C) | Solid (crystalline) |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Taste | Sour, acidic |
| Density (20°C) | 1.542 g/cm³ |
| Bulk density (typical) | 0.8–0.9 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 100°C (loses water of crystallization) |
| Decomposition temperature | ≈135–152°C (anhydrous form) |
| Flash point | Not flammable |
| Vapor pressure | Negligible |
| Hygroscopicity | Slightly hygroscopic (less than anhydrous in normal conditions) |
| Parameter | Anhydrous | Monohydrate |
|---|---|---|
| Loss on drying (105°C, 1 hour) | ≤ 0.5% | 7.5–9.0% (water of crystallization) |
| Dehydration temperature | N/A | ≈100°C |
| Specific heat capacity (20°C) | 1.23–1.26 J/(g·K) | Similar |
| Heat of combustion | -1,960 kJ/mol | -1,960 kJ/mol (calculated on anhydrous basis) |
| Sieve | Anhydrous | Monohydrate |
|---|---|---|
| > 500 μm | ≤ 5% | ≤ 5% |
| < 63 μm | ≤ 10% | ≤ 10% |
| Temperature (°C) | Solubility (g/100 mL water) |
|---|---|
| 0°C | 59.2 |
| 10°C | 64.3 |
| 20°C | 70.0 |
| 30°C | 75.0 |
| 40°C | 80.0 |
| 50°C | 85.0 |
| 60°C | 90.0 |
| 70°C | 95.0 |
| 80°C | 100.0 |
| Solvent | Solubility (g/100 mL) |
|---|---|
| Ethanol (96%) | 56.0 |
| Methanol | 120.0 (very soluble) |
| Acetone | 50.0 |
| Diethyl ether | 2.2 (sparingly soluble) |
| Ethyl acetate | 30.0 |
| Glycerol | 60.0 |
| Isopropanol | 50.0 |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| pH (0.1% solution, 20°C) | 2.5–2.8 |
| pH (1% solution, 20°C) | 2.1–2.3 |
| pH (5% solution, 20°C) | 1.8–2.0 |
| pH (10% solution, 20°C) | 1.6–1.8 |
| Heat of solution (in water) | Endothermic (cools water) |
Structure: HOOC–CH₂–C(OH)(COOH)–CH₂–COOH
Tricarboxylic acid (three carboxyl groups – COOH)
One tertiary hydroxyl group (–OH)
Weak organic acid (tribasic)
Chiral center (optically active; commercial product is racemic mixture)
| Dissociation Step | pKa | Equation |
|---|---|---|
| First dissociation | 3.13 | H₃C₆H₅O₇ ⇌ H₂C₆H₅O₇⁻ + H⁺ |
| Second dissociation | 4.76 | H₂C₆H₅O₇⁻ ⇌ HC₆H₅O₇²⁻ + H⁺ |
| Third dissociation | 6.39 | HC₆H₅O₇²⁻ ⇌ C₆H₅O₇³⁻ + H⁺ |
Citric acid is an excellent chelating agent (sequestrant), forming stable complexes with metal ions:
| Metal Ion | Complex Stability | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Ca²⁺ (Calcium) | High (water softening) | Scale prevention, detergents |
| Mg²⁺ (Magnesium) | Moderate | Water softening |
| Fe³⁺ (Iron) | Very high | Rust removal, antioxidant synergist |
| Cu²⁺ (Copper) | High | Metal cleaning |
| Al³⁺ (Aluminum) | High | Metal cleaning |
| Pb²⁺ (Lead) | Moderate | Heavy metal sequestration |
| Reaction | Description |
|---|---|
| Neutralization with bases | Forms citrate salts (sodium citrate, potassium citrate, calcium citrate, etc.) |
| Esterification | With alcohols → citrate esters (plasticizers, emulsifiers) |
| Decarboxylation | Heating >175°C → aconitic acid, itaconic acid |
| Oxidation | With strong oxidizers → CO₂ + H₂O |
| Chelation | Forms stable complexes with multivalent metal ions |
| Temperature | Products |
|---|---|
| 100°C (monohydrate) | Loss of water → anhydrous citric acid |
| 153–159°C | Melting (anhydrous) |
| 175–310°C | Decomposition → aconitic acid, itaconic acid, CO₂, H₂O, acetone |
| >310°C | Complete decomposition → CO₂ + H₂O |
Strong oxidizing agents (nitrates, permanganates, peroxides, chromates)
Strong bases (neutralization – exothermic)
Metal nitrates (potential for explosive mixtures)
Alkali metal carbonates and bicarbonates (CO₂ evolution)
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Assay (anhydrous basis) | 99.5–100.5% | Titration (NaOH) |
| Identification | Passes tests | Chemical / IR |
| Appearance of solution | Clear and colorless | Visual |
| Clarity of solution | Clear (≤ 5 NTU) | Nephelometry |
| Color of solution | ≤ 20 APHA | Visual |
| Water content (K. Fischer) | ≤ 0.5–1.0% | Karl Fischer |
| Readily carbonizable substances | Passes test | Color comparison |
| Sulfated ash | ≤ 0.05% | Ignition (800°C) |
| Chlorides (Cl) | ≤ 50 ppm | Turbidimetric |
| Sulfates (SO₄) | ≤ 150 ppm | Turbidimetric |
| Oxalates (C₂O₄) | ≤ 100 ppm | Colorimetric |
| Calcium (Ca) | ≤ 200 ppm | Atomic absorption |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 50 ppm | Colorimetric |
| Heavy metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | Colorimetric |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 1 ppm | Atomic absorption |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 1 ppm | Atomic absorption |
| Mercury (Hg) | ≤ 1 ppm | Atomic absorption |
| Aluminum (Al) | ≤ 0.2 ppm (pharma) | Atomic absorption |
| Bacterial endotoxins | ≤ 5 IU/g (pharma) | LAL test |
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Assay (anhydrous basis) | 99.5–100.5% |
| Water content (K. Fischer) | 7.5–9.0% (theoretical: 8.57%) |
| All other tests | Same as anhydrous |
Microorganism: Aspergillus niger (mold)
Substrate: Carbohydrate sources (corn syrup, molasses, beet molasses, cane molasses, starch hydrolysate)
Process:
Substrate is sterilized and inoculated with Aspergillus niger spores
Fermentation at 28–32°C for 5–14 days
pH maintained at 3–4 (optimizes citric acid production, inhibits other acids)
Citric acid precipitates as calcium citrate
Calcium citrate treated with sulfuric acid → citric acid + calcium sulfate (gypsum)
Purification → crystallization → drying
Typical yield: 70–90% (based on sugar consumed)
Lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit juices contain 5–8% citric acid
Extraction via lime precipitation → sulfuric acid treatment
| Condition | Product |
|---|---|
| Crystallization below 36.5°C | Monohydrate (C₆H₈O₇·H₂O) |
| Crystallization above 36.5°C | Anhydrous (C₆H₈O₇) |
Donates H⁺ ions in solution → lowers pH
Weak acid (pKa 3.13) provides buffer capacity in acidic range (pH 2.5–5.5)
Citric acid binds metal ions via its three carboxyl groups and one hydroxyl group:
Ca²⁺ + C₆H₅O₇³⁻ → [Ca(C₆H₅O₇)]⁻ (soluble complex)
Effect: Prevents metal ion precipitation, scale formation, and metal-catalyzed oxidation.
Chelates metal ions (Fe, Cu) that catalyze oxidation reactions
Enhances effectiveness of primary antioxidants (e.g., BHA, BHT, tocopherols)
| Application | Function | Typical Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| Soft drinks (cola, lemonade, fruit drinks) | Acidulant, flavor enhancer, pH adjuster | 0.1–0.5% |
| Jams, jellies, fruit preserves | pH adjuster (pectin setting), antioxidant | 0.1–1.0% |
| Canned fruits and vegetables | pH adjuster (prevents browning), chelator | 0.1–0.5% |
| Confectionery (candies, gums) | Acidulant, flavor enhancer | 0.5–2.0% |
| Wine and juice | Acidulant, pH adjuster, stabilizer | 0.1–0.5% |
| Dairy products (cheese, ice cream) | Emulsifier, pH adjuster | 0.1–0.5% |
| Meat products (processed meats) | Antioxidant synergist, color stabilizer | 0.1–0.5% |
| Oil and fats | Antioxidant synergist | 0.01–0.1% |
| Baking powders | Acid component (with bicarbonate) | 10–30% of baking powder |
Food additive status: E330 – GRAS (FDA), permitted worldwide
| Application | Function | Typical Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| Effervescent tablets (vitamins, analgesics) | Acid component (reacts with bicarbonate → CO₂) | 10–50% |
| Syrups and liquids | pH adjuster, flavor enhancer | 0.1–2% |
| Anticoagulant (blood collection tubes) | Chelates calcium (prevents clotting) | 0.01–0.1 M |
| Tablet excipient (granulation aid) | Binder, disintegrant | 1–10% |
| Iron supplements | Antioxidant, stabilizer | 0.1–1.0% |
| Antacid formulations | pH adjuster | 0.5–5% |
| Application | Function | Typical Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| Skin care (exfoliants, peels) | Exfoliant, pH adjuster (AHAs) | 5–30% (peels); 0.5–2% (daily products) |
| Shampoos and conditioners | pH adjuster, chelator | 0.1–1.0% |
| Soaps (liquid and bar) | Chelator (prevents soap scum), pH adjuster | 0.1–1.0% |
| Hair dyes and bleaches | pH adjuster | 1–5% |
| Bath bombs | Acid component (with bicarbonate) | 10–30% |
| Hand sanitizers | pH adjuster, mild preservative booster | 0.1–1.0% |
| Application | Function | Typical Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| Descaling agents (coffee makers, kettles, dishwashers) | Dissolves calcium carbonate scale | 5–20% |
| Laundry detergents | Chelator, water softener, builder | 1–10% |
| Dishwashing detergents | Chelator, water softener, glass protectant | 1–5% |
| Metal cleaners (rust removal) | Chelates Fe³⁺ → soluble complex | 5–15% |
| Concrete cleaners | Dissolves efflorescence (calcium salts) | 5–20% |
| Dairy and brewery cleaning (CIP) | Chelator, scale remover | 0.5–2% |
| Application | Function | Typical Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Boiler water treatment | Chelator (prevents scale) | 1–50 mg/L |
| Cooling water treatment | Scale inhibitor, corrosion control | 1–20 mg/L |
| Heavy metal removal | Chelation → soluble complexes | Variable |
| Application | Product |
|---|---|
| Citrate salts production | Sodium citrate, potassium citrate, calcium citrate, ferric citrate, etc. |
| Citrate esters (plasticizers) | Tributyl citrate (TBC), triethyl citrate (TEC), acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC) |
| Biodegradable polymers | Polycitrate polymers |
| Fine chemicals synthesis | Intermediate for organic synthesis |
| Application | Function |
|---|---|
| Fertilizer chelator | Chelates micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu) for plant uptake |
| Soil pH amendment | Lowers soil pH (for acid-loving plants) |
| Parameter | Value | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Oral LD₅₀ (rat) | 3,000–5,400 mg/kg (low toxicity) | Not classified |
| Dermal LD₅₀ (rabbit) | >2,000 mg/kg | Not classified |
| Inhalation LC₅₀ | Not determined (dust may be irritating) | Not classified |
| Skin irritation | Mild irritant (concentrated solutions) | Not classified |
| Eye irritation | Moderate to severe irritant (concentrated solutions) | Eye Irrit. 2 |
| Skin sensitization | Non-sensitizer | Not classified |
| Classification | Category |
|---|---|
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | H319 – Causes serious eye irritation |
| Precautionary statements | P264, P280, P305+P351+P338, P337+P313 |
| Health | Flammability | Reactivity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Authority | Limit | Type |
|---|---|---|
| OSHA PEL | 15 mg/m³ (total dust), 5 mg/m³ (respirable) | TWA (8 hour) |
| ACGIH TLV | Not established | — |
Hazards:
Low acute toxicity
Dust may cause eye and respiratory tract irritation
Slightly combustible (dust explosion possible at high concentrations)
Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture – monohydrate less so)
PPE (recommended – industrial handling):
Safety glasses (EN 166) or chemical goggles – mandatory
Dust mask (FFP2/N95) – for dusty operations
Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile – for concentrated solutions)
Protective clothing (dust protection)
Engineering controls:
Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) for dust control
Eyewash stations
First aid:
Eye contact: Rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes; remove contact lenses; seek medical attention if irritation persists
Skin contact: Wash with soap and water
Inhalation: Move to fresh air
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; drink water (low toxicity)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable (OECD 301) – 90–100% in 28 days |
| Aquatic toxicity (fish, LC₅₀, 96 hours) | 1,000–3,000 mg/L (low toxicity) |
| Daphnia magna (EC₅₀, 48 hours) | 500–2,000 mg/L |
| Algal toxicity (EC₅₀, 72 hours) | 100–500 mg/L |
| Bioaccumulation | Very low (log P = -1.64) |
| Mobility in soil | High (high water solubility) |
| WGK Germany | 1 (low hazard to water) |
| Disposal method | Incineration or landfill (non-hazardous waste) |
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Storage temperature | 5–30°C (room temperature) |
| Container | Keep tightly closed in original container (HDPE, PP, paper bags with liner) |
| Protect from | Moisture (hygroscopic – anhydrous more than monohydrate), strong oxidizing agents |
| Environment | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Incompatibles | Strong oxidizing agents, strong bases, alkali metal carbonates/bicarbonates (CO₂ evolution) |
| Parameter | Anhydrous | Monohydrate |
|---|---|---|
| Shelf life (proper storage) | 24–36 months | 24–36 months |
| Degradation indicators | Caking (moisture absorption), discoloration (yellowing) | Efflorescence (loss of water of crystallization – white powder on surface) |
| Regulation | Classification |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not regulated (non-hazardous) |
| ADR/RID | Not classified as dangerous goods |
| IMDG | Not regulated |
| IATA | Not regulated |
| Proper shipping name | Citric acid (non-hazardous) |
English: Citric Acid, Anhydrous Citric Acid, Citric Acid Monohydrate, 2-Hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, β-Hydroxytricarballylic Acid, 3-Carboxy-3-hydroxypentane-1,5-dioic acid
Trade names: Citric Acid (anhydrous), Citric Acid Monohydrate (crystallized), 99% Citric Acid
Other languages:
Turkish: Sitrik Asit, Sitrik Asit Anhidrat, Sitrik Asit Monohidrat
French: Acide citrique
German: Citronensäure
Spanish: Ácido cítrico
| Regulation | Status |
|---|---|
| REACH (EU) | Registered (EC 201-069-1) |
| TSCA (US) | Listed |
| FDA | GRAS – food additive (E330) – 21 CFR § 184.1033 |
| EFSA | Permitted as food additive (E330) |
| USP / Ph. Eur. / BP / FCC | Monographed for pharmaceutical and food use |
| EPA | Not restricted |
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Natural origin | Produced via fermentation from renewable carbohydrate sources (corn, molasses) |
| Non-toxic and safe | GRAS status; widely used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products |
| Biodegradable | Readily biodegradable – environmentally friendly |
| Excellent chelating agent | Forms stable complexes with Ca²⁺, Fe³⁺, Cu²⁺, Mg²⁺ – effective water softener, scale remover |
| Versatile acidulant | Provides sour taste, pH control, buffering capacity |
| Antioxidant synergist | Chelates metal ions that catalyze oxidation – extends shelf life of fats and oils |
| Easily soluble | High water solubility (70 g/100 mL at 20°C) |
| Two forms available | Anhydrous (faster dissolution) and monohydrate (larger crystals, less caking) |
| Pharmaceutical applications | Effervescent tablets, anticoagulant, excipient |
| Cleaning applications | Excellent descaling agent (removes calcium carbonate scale) |
Hygroscopic (anhydrous more than monohydrate) – absorbs moisture; requires airtight storage
Decomposes at high temperatures (>175°C) – limited thermal stability
May cause eye irritation (concentrated dust/solutions) – requires PPE (goggles)
Slightly corrosive to metals in concentrated solutions (due to acidity)
| Property | Anhydrous (C₆H₈O₇) | Monohydrate (C₆H₈O₇·H₂O) |
|---|---|---|
| CAS Number | 77-92-9 | 5949-29-1 |
| Molecular weight | 192.12 g/mol | 210.14 g/mol |
| Water content | ≤ 0.5% | 7.5–9.0% (8.57% theoretical) |
| Crystallization temperature | >36.5°C | <36.5°C |
| Density (20°C) | 1.665 g/cm³ | 1.542 g/cm³ |
| Melting point | 153–159°C | 100°C (loses water) |
| Hygroscopicity | Higher | Lower (more stable in humid air) |
| Caking tendency | Higher | Lower |
| Dissolution rate | Faster | Slightly slower |
| Typical applications | Pharmaceuticals, effervescent tablets, chemical synthesis | Food, beverages, detergents, general purpose |
| Cost | Slightly higher (less water weight) | Slightly lower (contains water weight) |
| Salt | Formula | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium citrate (trisodium citrate) | Na₃C₆H₅O₇ | Buffer, emulsifier, anticoagulant |
| Potassium citrate | K₃C₆H₅O₇ | Urine alkalinizer, buffer |
| Calcium citrate | Ca₃(C₆H₅O₇)₂ | Calcium supplement |
| Ferric citrate | FeC₆H₅O₇ | Iron supplement, nutrient |
| Zinc citrate | Zn₃(C₆H₅O₇)₂ | Zinc supplement |
| Magnesium citrate | Mg₃(C₆H₅O₇)₂ | Magnesium supplement, laxative |
| Triethyl citrate (TEC) | (C₂H₅)₃C₆H₅O₇ | Plasticizer |
| Tributyl citrate (TBC) | (C₄H₉)₃C₆H₅O₇ | Plasticizer |
| Acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC) | Acetyl-(C₄H₉)₃C₆H₅O₇ | Plasticizer (non-phthalate) |
Q1: What is the difference between citric acid anhydrous and monohydrate?
A1: Anhydrous citric acid contains no water of crystallization; monohydrate contains one water molecule (8.57% water). Monohydrate is more stable in humid conditions (less caking), while anhydrous dissolves faster and has higher concentration per weight.
Q2: Is citric acid safe to eat?
A2: Yes, food-grade citric acid (E330) is GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by FDA and EFSA. It is naturally present in citrus fruits and used as a food additive in countless products.
Q3: Is citric acid vegan?
A3: Yes, commercially produced citric acid is made via fermentation of carbohydrates by Aspergillus niger (fungus). It is vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Q4: Can citric acid remove rust?
A4: Yes, citric acid chelates Fe³⁺ ions, forming soluble iron citrate complexes. It is effective for removing rust from metal surfaces (5–15% solution recommended).
Q5: Why does citric acid clean coffee makers?
A5: Citric acid dissolves calcium carbonate scale (limescale) that accumulates in coffee makers: CaCO₃ + H₃C₆H₅O₇ → CaC₆H₅O₇⁻ + H₂O + CO₂↑. The soluble calcium citrate complex is then rinsed away.
Q6: Is citric acid the same as vitamin C (ascorbic acid)?
A6: No. Citric acid (C₆H₈O₇) is a different compound from ascorbic acid (C₆H₈O₆, vitamin C). Both are organic acids, but they have different chemical structures and biological functions.
| Parameter | Anhydrous | Monohydrate |
|---|---|---|
| CAS Number | 77-92-9 | 5949-29-1 |
| Molecular Formula | C₆H₈O₇ | C₆H₈O₇·H₂O |
| Molecular Weight | 192.12 g/mol | 210.14 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder | White crystalline powder |
| Density (20°C) | 1.665 g/cm³ | 1.542 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 153–159°C | 100°C (dehydrates) |
| pH (1% solution) | 2.1–2.3 | 2.1–2.3 |
| Water Solubility (20°C) | 70 g/100 mL | 70 g/100 mL (anhydrous basis) |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.5% | 7.5–9.0% |
| Assay (anhydrous basis) | 99.5–100.5% | 99.5–100.5% |
| E Number | E330 | E330 |
| Primary Applications | Pharmaceuticals, effervescent tablets, chemical synthesis | Food, beverages, detergents, cleaning, water treatment |
| GHS Signal Word | Warning | Warning |
| Hazard Statements | H319 (Causes serious eye irritation) | H319 |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable | Readily biodegradable |
| Shelf Life | 24–36 months | 24–36 months |
This TDS is prepared in compliance with ISO 11014-1 format and is intended for food technologists, pharmaceutical scientists, cosmetic formulators, chemical engineers, cleaning product manufacturers, and procurement professionals. Certificates of Analysis (CoA), Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and sample validation reports are available upon request.