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Send EmailMethyl Paraben, Methylparaben, Methyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate, E218, 99-76-33
METHYL PARABEN - METİL PARABEN
Methyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate - E218 - Nipagin M
CAS: 99-76-3
| Product Name | Methyl Paraben (Methyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate) |
| CAS Number | 99-76-3 |
| EC Number | 202-785-7 |
| E Number | E218 |
| Chemical Class | Paraben Ester |
| Synonyms | Methylparaben, Methyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate, Methyl p-Hydroxybenzoate, Nipagin, Nipagin M, Solbrol M, Tegosept M, Preserval M, E218 |
ITEM 1: PRODUCT IDENTITY AND NOMENCLATURE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| IUPAC Name | Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate |
| Chemical Formula | C₈H₈O₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 152.15 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 99-76-3 |
| EC Number | 202-785-7 |
| E Number | E218 (food additive) |
| Synonyms | Methylparaben, Methyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate, Methyl p-Hydroxybenzoate, Nipagin, Nipagin M, Solbrol M, Tegosept M, Preserval M, E218 |
| HS Code | 2918.29.00.00.00 |
| REACH Status | Registered and compliant |
Description: Methyl Paraben is a member of the paraben family of preservatives. It is the methyl ester of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (para-hydroxybenzoic acid). It is a colorless crystalline or white crystalline powder with no odor. It is the shortest-chain member of the paraben family, with the highest water solubility among parabens. Due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antifungal activity, it is widely used as a preservative in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food products. As a food additive, it is designated as E218. Its low cost, broad pH stability, and effectiveness make it the most commonly used paraben type.
ITEM 2: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND MOLECULAR PROPERTIES
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Family | Paraben Ester |
| Structure | Ester of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and methanol |
| Functional Groups | Ester (-COO-), Hydroxyl (-OH), Aromatic ring |
| Molecular Structure | HO-C₆H₄-COO-CH₃ |
| SMILES | COC(=O)C1=CC=C(C=C1)O |
| InChI Key | LXCFILQKKLGQFO-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| pKa | 8.5 |
| LogP | 1.96 |
Structural Formula:
text
O
||
C - O - CH₃
/ \
/ \
\ /
\ /
C - OH
|
(Aromatic Ring)
Description: Methyl Paraben is formed by the esterification of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid with methanol. The molecule contains an ester group (-COO-), a hydroxyl group (-OH), and an aromatic ring. It is the shortest-chain member of the paraben family (C1), with the lowest lipophilicity (LogP 1.96) and the highest water solubility among parabens.
ITEM 3: PHYSICAL APPEARANCE AND FORM
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless crystals or white crystalline powder | Visual Inspection |
| Physical Form | Solid (crystalline) | Visual Inspection |
| Color | White | Visual Inspection |
| Odor | Odorless | Organoleptic |
| Crystal Shape | Needle-like or prismatic | Microscopic |
Description: Methyl Paraben is a colorless crystalline or white crystalline powder with no odor. It is supplied as a free-flowing powder with high purity.
ITEM 4: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Specification | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melting Point | 125 – 128 °C | 126 – 127 °C | DSC |
| Boiling Point | 280 – 290 °C (decomposes) | – | – |
| Density | 1.37 g/cm³ | – | – |
| Flash Point | > 150 °C | – | ASTM D93 |
| pKa | 8.5 | – | – |
| Water Solubility (25°C) | ~2.5 g/L | – | – |
Description: Methyl Paraben has a melting point of 125-128°C. It has the highest water solubility among parabens (~2.5 g/L). Its density is 1.37 g/cm³.
ITEM 5: SOLUBILITY AND MISCIBILITY
| Solvent / Medium | Solubility / Miscibility |
|---|---|
| Water (25°C) | ~2.5 g/L |
| Hot Water (60-100°C) | Readily soluble |
| Ethanol | Readily soluble |
| Methanol | Readily soluble |
| Acetone | Readily soluble |
| Ether | Readily soluble |
| Propylene Glycol | Soluble |
| Glycerin | Partially soluble |
| Oils | Partially soluble (hot) |
Description: Methyl Paraben has the highest water solubility among parabens (~2.5 g/L). Its water solubility increases significantly with temperature. It is readily soluble in ethanol, methanol, acetone, and ether. It is soluble in propylene glycol and partially soluble in glycerin and oils.
ITEM 6: PURITY AND ANALYTICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter | Specification | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity (HPLC) | ≥ 99.0% | 99.5% | HPLC |
| Melting Point | 125 – 128 °C | 126 – 127 °C | DSC |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 0.5% | 0.1% | USP <731> |
| Ash Content | ≤ 0.1% | 0.02% | USP <281> |
| Acidity | ≤ 0.1 mL NaOH (0.1M) | – | Titration |
| Chloride | ≤ 0.035% | – | USP <221> |
| Sulfate | ≤ 0.024% | – | USP <221> |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 20 ppm | <5 ppm | USP <231> |
| Arsenic | ≤ 2 ppm | <1 ppm | USP <211> |
| Related Substances | Single: ≤ 0.4%; Total: ≤ 0.8% | – | HPLC |
Description: Methyl Paraben is supplied in high purity (≥99.0%) meeting pharmacopoeia (USP/EP) standards. Low loss on drying and ash content indicate high quality. Heavy metal and arsenic content are within strict limits for safety.
ITEM 7: ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY
| Microorganism | Activity | Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) |
|---|---|---|
| Gram-Positive Bacteria | Effective | – |
| Staphylococcus aureus | Effective | 200 – 400 ppm |
| Gram-Negative Bacteria | Moderate | – |
| Pseudomonas aeruginosa | Moderate | > 500 ppm |
| Escherichia coli | Moderate | 300 – 500 ppm |
| Yeasts | Effective | – |
| Candida albicans | Effective | 150 – 250 ppm |
| Molds | Effective | – |
| Aspergillus niger | Effective | 150 – 250 ppm |
Activity Spectrum: Methyl Paraben exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It has the weakest antimicrobial activity among parabens but the highest water solubility. Therefore, it is typically effective in the aqueous phase and is often used in combination with other parabens (ethyl, propyl, butyl).
ITEM 8: COSMETIC APPLICATIONS
| Application Category | Function / Benefit |
|---|---|
| Shampoos | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Conditioners | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Creams | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Lotions | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Moisturizers | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Makeup | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Sunscreens | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Deodorants | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Toothpastes | Preservative |
| Shaving Products | Preservative |
| Baby Care Products | Preservative |
| Wet Wipes | Preservative |
Usage Levels and Regulatory Status:
| Region | Maximum Concentration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| European Union | Single: 0.4%; Mixed: 0.8% | EU Cosmetics Regulation |
| Turkey | Single: 0.4%; Mixed: 0.8% | Aligned with EU regulation |
| USA (FDA) | Single: 0.1-0.4%; Mixed: 0.8% | FDA regulations |
Description: Methyl Paraben is the most widely used preservative in cosmetic products. Due to its high water solubility, it is preferred in aqueous formulations. The maximum concentration is 0.4% (single use) and 0.8% (mixed parabens) in the EU and Turkey.
ITEM 9: FOOD APPLICATIONS (E218)
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Food Additive (E218) | Preservative for various food products |
| Mayonnaise | Preservative, prevents mold and yeast growth |
| Sauces | Preservative, prevents microbial spoilage |
| Baked Goods | Preservative, extends shelf life |
| Beverages | Preservative, prevents spoilage |
| Processed Foods | Preservative, microbial stability |
| Jams | Preservative, prevents mold growth |
Description: As a food additive, Methyl Paraben is designated as E218. It is used as a preservative in mayonnaise, sauces, baked goods, beverages, processed foods, and jams. It prevents mold and yeast growth. Its use is permitted only at specific concentrations and in specific products.
ITEM 10: PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Topical Creams | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Ointments | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Oral Liquids | Preservative, antimicrobial protection |
| Gels | Preservative |
| Ophthalmic Preparations | Preservative (limited) |
| Tablet Coatings | Preservative, excipient |
| Reference Standards | USP/EP reference standard |
Description: In pharmaceutical applications, Methyl Paraben is used as a preservative in topical creams, ointments, oral liquids, gels, and ophthalmic preparations. It is recognized in pharmacopoeia standards (USP/EP) and used as a reference standard in analytical testing.
ITEM 11: PARABEN TYPES COMPARISON
| Property | Methyl Paraben | Ethyl Paraben | Propyl Paraben | Butyl Paraben |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alkyl Chain | Methyl (C1) | Ethyl (C2) | Propyl (C3) | Butyl (C4) |
| Melting Point | 125-128°C | 115-118°C | 96-99°C | 68-71°C |
| Water Solubility | Good (2.5 g/L) | Limited (1.5 g/L) | Low (0.5 g/L) | Very low |
| Oil Solubility | Low | Moderate | Good | Very good |
| Antimicrobial Activity | Broad-spectrum | Broad-spectrum | Strong | Strongest |
| EU Max. Concentration | 0.4% (single) | 0.4% (single) | 0.14% (single) | 0.14% (single) |
| E Number | E218 | E214 | E216 | – |
| Estrogenic Activity | Weak | Weak | Moderate | Moderate-Strong |
Description: Methyl Paraben is the shortest-chain member of the paraben family with the highest water solubility. Its antimicrobial activity is weaker than other parabens, but its water solubility is the best. Its estrogenic activity is the weakest among parabens.
ITEM 12: DISSOLUTION AND FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Dissolution in Water | Heat water to 60-100°C, add Methyl Paraben, and dissolve |
| Dissolution in Organic Solvents | Readily soluble in ethanol, propylene glycol, etc. |
| Dissolution in Oil Phase | Dissolve in lipophilic components with heating |
| pH Stability | Stable across a wide pH range (4-8) |
| Temperature Stability | Stable up to 80°C |
| Activity | More active at acidic pH |
Description: Methyl Paraben is the most water-soluble paraben type. Its water solubility increases with temperature. It remains stable across a wide pH range (4-8) and shows thermal stability up to 80°C. Its antimicrobial activity increases at acidic pH.
ITEM 13: REGULATORY STATUS
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union | Permitted (single: 0.4%; mixed: 0.8%) |
| Turkey | Permitted (single: 0.4%; mixed: 0.8%) |
| USA (FDA) | Permitted (single: 0.1-0.4%; mixed: 0.8%) |
| Japan | Permitted (subject to regulations) |
| JECFA (FAO/WHO) | ADI approved |
| REACH (EU) | Registered |
| TSCA (USA) | Listed |
| EINECS (EU) | 202-785-7 |
| E Number | E218 (food additive) |
| USP/EP | Recognized as pharmacopoeia standard |
ITEM 14: SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50) | ~ 5,000 – 6,000 mg/kg (rat) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity | Low |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating (at typical use levels) |
| Eye Irritation | Mild irritant |
| Skin Sensitization | Potential sensitizer |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Mutagenicity | Not classified |
| Endocrine Disruption | Potential concern (weak estrogenic activity) |
| Allergen Potential | May cause allergic reactions |
| Estrogenic Activity | Weakest among parabens |
Description: Methyl Paraben has low acute toxicity (LD50 ~5,000-6,000 mg/kg). At typical use levels, it is non-irritating to the skin. As a member of the paraben family, it has been studied for potential endocrine-disrupting effects. Its estrogenic activity is the weakest among parabens. Allergic reactions are possible in sensitive individuals.
ITEM 15: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | 15 – 30°C |
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Light | Protect from direct sunlight |
| Moisture | Keep away from moisture; store in tightly closed containers |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong oxidizers, strong acids, strong bases |
| Shelf Life | 24 – 36 months (unopened, recommended conditions) |
| Signs of Degradation | Discoloration, caking |
ITEM 16: PACKAGING INFORMATION
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Packaging | 25 kg multi-layer bags with PE liner |
| Bulk Packaging | 500 – 1000 kg big-bags |
| Small Packaging | 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg (available upon request) |
| Packaging Materials | PE-lined bags, HDPE containers, fiber drums |
QUALITY AND CERTIFICATION SUMMARY
| Certificate / Standard | Status |
|---|---|
| ISO 9001:2015 | Certified manufacturing sites |
| REACH (EC 1907/2006) | Registered and compliant |
| FDA 21 CFR | Permitted for use |
| USP/EP | Pharmaceutical grade available |
| Halal | Available upon request |
| Kosher | Available upon request |
Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet provides typical values for reference purposes only. All values are based on standard laboratory measurements and do not constitute a binding specification. For binding properties, please request the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each specific batch. The user is solely responsible for determining product suitability for their intended application and for compliance with all applicable regulations. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) must be requested from the supplier before use.
