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Denatonium Benzoate, Lidocaine Benzyl Benzoate, Bitrex, 3734-33-6

Denatonium Benzoate, Lidocaine Benzyl Benzoate, Bitrex, 3734-33-6

DENATONIUM BENZOATE (BITREX)

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

Parameter Information
Product Name Denatonium Benzoate
Chemical Name Denatonium Benzoate
Synonyms (Turkish) Denatonyum Benzoat, Bitreks, Lidocaine Benzyl Benzoate
Synonyms (English) Denatonium Benzoate, Bitrex, Denatonium Benzoate Monohydrate, N-Benzyl-2-[(2,6-dimethylphenyl)amino]-N,N-diethyl-2-oxoethanaminium benzoate, Lignocaine Benzyl Benzoate, THS-839, Aversion
CAS Number 3734-33-6
EC Number 223-095-2
Molecular Formula C₂₈H₃₄N₂O₃
Molecular Weight 446.58 g/mol
Appearance White, crystalline powder
Odor Odorless or slight characteristic odor
Taste Extremely bitter (the most bitter substance known)

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

Denatonium Benzoate Structure:

        O                 CH₂CH₃
        ||                   |
    C₆H₅—C—O⁻       N⁺—CH₂—C—NH—C₆H₃(CH₃)₂
                    |       ||
                   CH₂     O
                   |
                 C₆H₅

Structure Description:

  • Quaternary ammonium salt.

  • Contains a denatonium cation and a benzoate anion.

  • The most bitter compound known to science.

  • Approximately 1000 times more bitter than quinine.

  • Detectable at concentrations as low as 10 ppm (parts per million).

  • White, crystalline, odorless powder.

SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DESCRIPTION

Parameter Information
Product Name Denatonium Benzoate
Chemical Name Denatonium Benzoate
Synonyms (Turkish) Denatonyum Benzoat, Bitreks, Lidocaine Benzyl Benzoate
Synonyms (English) Denatonium Benzoate, Bitrex, Denatonium Benzoate Monohydrate, N-Benzyl-2-[(2,6-dimethylphenyl)amino]-N,N-diethyl-2-oxoethanaminium benzoate, Lignocaine Benzyl Benzoate, THS-839, Aversion, Denatrol
CAS Number 3734-33-6
EC Number 223-095-2
Molecular Formula C₂₈H₃₄N₂O₃
Molecular Weight 446.58 g/mol
Chemical Class Quaternary ammonium salt; Denaturant; Bittering agent
Source Synthetic
Physical State (20°C) Solid (crystalline powder)
Odor Odorless or slight characteristic odor
Color White
Taste Extremely bitter (the most bitter substance known)

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Value Test Method / Note
Appearance White, crystalline powder Visual
Odor Odorless or slight characteristic odor Olfactometric
Molecular Weight 446.58 g/mol Calculated
Melting Point ~164 – 168°C DSC
Boiling Point Not applicable (decomposes)
Solubility in Water Soluble (~25 g/L at 20°C) General Method
Solubility in Ethanol Soluble General Method
Solubility in Propylene Glycol Soluble General Method
Solubility in Glycols Soluble General Method
Solubility in Organic Solvents Soluble (methanol, chloroform) General Method
pH (1% Solution) ~5.0 – 6.5 pH Meter
Bitter Index (vs. Quinine) ~1000x
Detection Threshold ~10 ppm (0.001%)
Stability Stable under normal conditions
Hygroscopicity Slightly hygroscopic
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Loss on Drying ≤ 0.5% Gravimetric
Purity ≥ 99.5% HPLC
Residue on Ignition ≤ 0.2% Gravimetric

SECTION 3: DENATONIUM BENZOATE vs OTHER BITTERING AGENTS

Property Denatonium Benzoate Quinine Sucrose Octaacetate Bitrex (Liquid Form)
Bitter Index ~1000 1 ~100 ~1000
Detection Threshold ~10 ppm ~10,000 ppm ~100 ppm ~10 ppm
Chemical Class Quaternary ammonium salt Alkaloid Sugar derivative Quaternary ammonium salt
Solubility in Water Soluble Slightly soluble Insoluble Soluble (prepared)
Stability Very stable Light sensitive Stable Stable
Toxicity Very low Moderate Very low Very low
Primary Use Denaturant, deterrent Medicinal, tonic Bittering agent Denaturant, deterrent
Cost Moderate Moderate-High Low Moderate

SECTION 4: MECHANISM OF ACTION

Property Description
Bitter Taste Response Activates bitter taste receptors (TAS2R) on the human tongue; Extremely potent agonist for multiple bitter receptors; Triggers aversive response; Prevents ingestion of toxic substances.
Deterrent Effect Creates an unpleasant sensory experience; Discourages accidental or deliberate ingestion; Effective at very low concentrations; Acts as a safety measure.
Denaturant Renders alcohol and other substances unfit for consumption; Prevents misuse of industrial products; Provides visual/taste marker for non-food products.
Mask Detection Used in N95 masks to verify proper fit; If the mask seals correctly, the user does not taste the bitter compound; If the mask leaks, the user detects the bitter taste.
Animal Deterrent Effective against mammals (dogs, cats, livestock) and birds; Discourages chewing, biting, and consumption; Used in agriculture and pest control.

SECTION 5: PRODUCTION PROCESS

Industrial Production Method:

Process Flow:
Lidocaine Synthesis → Benzylation → Denatonium Cation Formation → Salt Formation with Benzoic Acid → Crystallization → Purification → Drying → Milling → Final Product

Step-by-Step Description:

  1. Synthesis of Lidocaine Intermediate: Lidocaine is synthesized from 2,6-dimethylaniline and chloroacetic acid.

  2. Benzylation: The lidocaine intermediate is benzylated with benzyl chloride to form the denatonium cation.

  3. Salt Formation: The denatonium cation is reacted with benzoic acid to form denatonium benzoate.

  4. Crystallization: The product is crystallized from solution.

  5. Purification: Crystals are purified to remove impurities.

  6. Drying: Purified crystals are dried to achieve the desired moisture content.

  7. Milling: Dried product is milled to achieve the desired particle size.

  8. Final Product: White crystalline powder (≥ 99.5% purity).

SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

Property Description
Bittering Agent Extremely bitter taste; Effective at very low concentrations (10 ppm); Deters accidental ingestion; Safe and non-toxic at use levels.
Denaturant Renders alcohol unfit for consumption; Prevents misuse of industrial alcohol; Complies with alcohol denaturation regulations.
Deterrent Discourages chewing and biting in animals; Prevents ingestion of toxic substances; Protects children and pets from household chemicals.
Safety Marker Used in N95 mask fit testing; Indicates proper mask seal; Provides immediate user feedback.
Pest Deterrent Discourages rodents and birds from consuming seeds and crops; Used in agriculture and pest control; Effective against mammals.
Quality Control Indicator Used as a tracer in industrial processes; Allows detection of contamination or dilution.

SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS

Industry / Application Function Typical Use
Industrial Alcohol Denaturation Denaturant Prevents consumption of denatured alcohol; Complies with regulations (e.g., EU, FDA); Used in ethanol, methanol, and industrial spirits; Dosage: 10 – 50 ppm.
Household Chemicals Deterrent, safety agent Antifreeze (ethylene glycol); Windshield washer fluid; Cleaning products; Detergents; Paints and solvents; Dosage: 10 – 50 ppm.
Personal Care Products Deterrent Nail biting prevention polishes; Shampoos and liquid soaps; Mouthwashes (limited); Hand sanitizers; Dosage: 10 – 50 ppm.
Respiratory Protection (N95 Masks) Fit testing agent N95 mask fit testing; Verifies proper seal; Indicates mask leaks; Dosage: Applied to mask interior.
Agriculture Pest deterrent, seed coating Prevents birds and rodents from consuming seeds; Seed coatings and dressings; Rodenticide formulations; Animal deterrent sprays.
Pharmaceutical Denaturant, deterrent Liquid medication denaturation; Animal repellent formulations; Safety applications.
Cosmetics Denaturant, deterrent Alcohol-based cosmetics (denaturation); Hand sanitizers (denaturation); Perfumes and fragrances.
Laboratory & Research Reference standard, tracer Analytical standards (HPLC); Chemical tracer; Quality control applications.

SECTION 8: SAMPLE FORMULATIONS

Alcohol Denaturant Solution (For Industrial Ethanol):

Component Amount
Denatonium Benzoate (Powder) 10 – 50 g
Ethanol To 1000 L

Instructions: Dissolve denatonium benzoate in a small amount of ethanol; Add to the bulk ethanol with mixing; Ensure uniform distribution; Check concentration by HPLC.

Antifreeze Deterrent Blend:

Component Amount
Denatonium Benzoate (Powder) 5 – 15 ppm
Ethylene Glycol To 100%
Other Additives As required

Instructions: Dissolve denatonium benzoate in a compatible solvent (propylene glycol); Add to the antifreeze formulation with mixing; Ensure uniform distribution.

Nail Biting Prevention Polish:

Component Amount
Denatonium Benzoate 0.1 – 0.5%
Nail Polish Base To 100%
Colorants, Thickeners As required

Instructions: Dissolve denatonium benzoate in the nail polish base; Mix thoroughly; Package in appropriate containers.

SECTION 9: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS

Parameter Pharmaceutical Grade Industrial Grade Cosmetic Grade Test Method
Appearance White crystalline powder White crystalline powder White crystalline powder Visual
Purity ≥ 99.5% ≥ 99.0% ≥ 99.0% HPLC
Loss on Drying ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.5% Gravimetric
Residue on Ignition ≤ 0.2% ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.2% Gravimetric
Melting Point 164 – 168°C 164 – 168°C 164 – 168°C DSC
pH (1% Solution) 5.0 – 6.5 5.0 – 6.5 5.0 – 6.5 pH Meter
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm ≤ 20 ppm ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 2 ppm ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 2 ppm ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Related Substances Complies Complies HPLC
Particle Size Customer requirement Customer requirement Customer requirement Sieve

SECTION 10: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

Parameter Value
Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) ~ 500 – 700 mg/kg (moderate toxicity)
Acute Dermal Toxicity Low toxicity; Non-irritating
Skin Irritation Non-irritating
Eye Irritation Mildly irritating
Inhalation Toxicity May cause respiratory irritation (dust)
Chronic Toxicity Low toxicity at normal use levels
Carcinogenicity Not classified as carcinogenic
Mutagenicity Not mutagenic
Reproductive Toxicity No reproductive toxicity at normal levels
Allergenicity Low allergenicity
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) Not established (safe at intended use levels)
Special Toxicity Note Very low toxicity at intended use levels (10-50 ppm); GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for use as a denaturant and bittering agent; Safe for use in consumer products; Non-toxic at typical use concentrations; May cause mild irritation upon direct contact; Handle with standard precautions.

SECTION 11: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING

GHS Classification (in accordance with CLP and UN GHS):

Hazard Class Category H-Statement
Acute Toxicity (Oral) Category 4 H302
Eye Irritation Category 2 H319
Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single) Category 3 H335

Signal Word: WARNING

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)

Hazard Statements (H-Codes):

Code Statement
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H335 May cause respiratory irritation

NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:

Health Flammability Reactivity Special
1 0 0 -
(Slight health hazard) (Non-flammable) (Stable) (None)

SECTION 12: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

Code Statement
P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling
P270 Do not eat, drink, or smoke when using this product
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection
P301+P312 IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell
P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water
P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and continue rinsing
P312 Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell
P332+P313 If skin irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention
P337+P313 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention
P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse
P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed
P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations

SECTION 13: FIRST AID MEASURES

Exposure Route Action to Take
Inhalation Remove to fresh air immediately. If respiratory irritation develops, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, get medical attention.
Eye Contact Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Ingestion Rinse mouth. Drink plenty of water. Seek medical attention if large quantities are ingested or if feeling unwell.

SECTION 14: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Non-flammable organic material. May burn with thick smoke at high temperatures.
Hazards Arising from Fire Thermal decomposition produces carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and irritating fumes.
Suitable Extinguishing Media Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder, foam.
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media Water jet (may spread dust)
Special Protective Equipment Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing.
Special Precautions Prevent dust from entering sewers and waterways. Avoid dust cloud formation.

SECTION 15: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Parameter Information
Storage Conditions Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; PROTECT FROM LIGHT, HEAT, and MOISTURE; Keep away from direct sunlight.
Container Requirements Tightly closed, moisture-proof containers (PE-lined bags, HDPE containers, aluminum foil bags).
Materials to Protect From Light, heat, moisture, strong oxidizing agents
Shelf Life 36 – 60 months (3-5 years) in unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions.
Stability Note Very stable under recommended storage conditions; Slightly hygroscopic; Protect from moisture; Highly stable in dry environments.
Special Storage Requirements Store in a dark, cool, dry place; Avoid exposure to air and moisture; Opened containers must be resealed immediately.

SECTION 16: PACKAGING OPTIONS

Packaging Type Quantity Material
Aluminum Foil Bag 25 g, 100 g, 500 g, 1 kg Aluminum foil laminated bag (moisture and light-proof)
PE-Lined Paper Bag 5 kg, 10 kg, 20 kg, 25 kg PE-lined kraft paper bag (moisture-proof)
Plastic Drum 10 kg, 25 kg HDPE / Polypropylene (moisture-proof)
Fiber Drum 20 kg, 25 kg PE-lined fiberboard drum
FIBC / Big Bag 500 kg, 1000 kg PE-lined, moisture-resistant PP woven bag

SECTION 17: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Parameter Information
UN Number Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Hazard Class Not applicable
Packing Group Not applicable
ADR/RID Not regulated
IMDG Code Not regulated (non-hazardous)
IATA (Air) Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Marine Pollutant No
Transport Temperature Ambient temperature; Protect from moisture and heat.

SECTION 18: REGULATORY STATUS

Region / Authority Status
European Union Approved for use as a denaturant; REACH registered; Approved for use in alcohol denaturation (EU Regulation 2019/1148).
USA (TSCA) Listed (TSCA Inventory)
USA (FDA) GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for use as a denaturant and bittering agent ; 21 CFR 172.160; Approved for use in denatured alcohol.
Turkey Approved for use as a denaturant and bittering agent; Ministry of Agriculture and Health approvals required; KKDIK regulation compliance required.
EFSA Approved for use as a denaturant; Safety established.
IARC Not classified (non-carcinogenic)
NTP Not listed
OSHA Regulated as nuisance dust
California (Prop 65) Not listed
Halal Yes (with certification)
Kosher Yes (with certification)
Vegan Yes (synthetic, non-animal source)

SECTION 19: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

Type Name
Turkish Names Denatonyum Benzoat, Bitreks, Lidocaine Benzyl Benzoate
English Names Denatonium Benzoate, Bitrex, Denatonium Benzoate Monohydrate, N-Benzyl-2-[(2,6-dimethylphenyl)amino]-N,N-diethyl-2-oxoethanaminium benzoate, Lignocaine Benzyl Benzoate, THS-839, Aversion, Denatrol
Trade Names Bitrex, Denatrol, Aversion, Anispray, Gori, BitterANT-b, Bitter+Plus, WIN 16568
CAS Number 3734-33-6
EC Number 223-095-2
UNII M5BA6GAF1O
PubChem CID 19518
MDL Number MFCD00031578
HS Code 2923.90

SECTION 20: SUMMARY TABLE

Parameter Value
Product Denatonium Benzoate (Bitrex)
CAS Number 3734-33-6
Molecular Formula C₂₈H₃₄N₂O₃
Molecular Weight 446.58 g/mol
Appearance White, crystalline powder
Melting Point 164 – 168°C
Solubility Soluble in water, ethanol, propylene glycol
Bitter Index ~1000x (vs. quinine)
Detection Threshold ~10 ppm
Primary Functions Denaturant, bittering agent, deterrent, safety marker
Main Application Areas Alcohol denaturation, household chemicals, personal care, N95 mask fit testing, agriculture, cosmetics
Shelf Life 36 – 60 months
GHS Signal Word WARNING
UN Number Not regulated
Special Properties Most bitter substance known; Effective at extremely low concentrations; GRAS status; FDA approved; Safe at intended use levels; Very stable; Vegan; Halal.

SECTION 21: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

  • EXTREMELY BITTER: The most bitter substance known to science; Effective at 10 ppm; AVOID CONTACT WITH MOUTH, EYES, AND FOOD.

  • HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED (H302): Toxic at high concentrations; Low toxicity at intended use levels.

  • CAUSES EYE IRRITATION (H319): May cause serious eye irritation; Avoid eye contact.

  • MAY CAUSE RESPIRATORY IRRITATION (H335): Avoid inhalation of dust.

  • POTENT DENATURANT: Very effective at low concentrations; Can contaminate food processing lines; Thorough cleaning required if accidentally mixed.

  • HYGROSCOPIC: Slightly absorbs moisture; Store in tightly closed containers.

  • NON-FLAMMABLE: Stable and non-combustible.

  • GRAS Status: FDA GRAS as denaturant and bittering agent; Safe at intended use levels.

  • HIGH POTENCY: A small amount goes a long way; Use extreme care in measuring and handling.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Alcohol Denaturation: Use as denaturant for ethanol, methanol, and other industrial alcohols; Dosage: 10-50 ppm; Dissolve in a small amount of alcohol before adding to bulk; Ensure uniform distribution; Comply with local regulations.

  • Household Chemicals: Use as deterrent in antifreeze, cleaning products, and solvents; Dosage: 10-50 ppm; Dissolve in a compatible solvent before adding; Ensure uniform distribution; Protect children and pets.

  • Personal Care Products: Use in nail biting prevention polishes and hand sanitizers; Dosage: 10-50 ppm; Dissolve in the formulation; Ensure uniform distribution; Label appropriately.

  • N95 Mask Fit Testing: Apply to the mask interior; Follow standardized fit test protocols; Use at recommended concentrations; Ensure proper disposal after testing.

  • Agriculture: Use as seed coating and rodent deterrent; Dosage: 10-50 ppm; Apply as a coating or spray; Protect seeds from birds and rodents.

  • Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust formation; Use dust masks (N95/FFP2) when handling powder; Use gloves and safety goggles; Avoid contact with eyes and skin; Handle with extreme care to avoid contamination.

  • Personal Protective Equipment: Dust mask (N95/FFP2) if dust is generated, safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing.

  • Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using; Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse; Avoid cross-contamination with food products.

  • Storage: Store in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers; Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture and heat; Opened containers must be resealed immediately; Shelf life: 36-60 months under proper conditions.

  • Spill Management: Sweep or vacuum (HEPA) and place in suitable sealed container; Avoid dust formation; Do not allow entry into drains or waterways; Clean spill area thoroughly to avoid contamination.

  • Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Non-hazardous waste; Can be incinerated in compliance with regulations.

DETECTION METHODS:

Method Description Advantages Disadvantages
HPLC-UV Standard method for quantitative analysis High sensitivity, accurate, USP method High cost, requires expertise
LC-MS/MS Ultra-high sensitivity detection Very low detection limits High cost, requires expertise
TLC Qualitative detection Simple, rapid, low cost Semi-quantitative
UV-Vis Spectrophotometry Absorption at 260 nm Rapid, simple Less specific
Taste Panel Sensory evaluation Direct detection Subjective, not quantitative
Ion Chromatography Salt determination Specific Complex sample preparation

DENATONIUM BENZOATE vs ALTERNATIVES COMPARISON:

Product Chemical Name / E Code Application Strength Weakness Status
Denatonium Benzoate C₂₈H₃₄N₂O₃ Denaturant, deterrent Most bitter, very low detection, GRAS Higher cost Widely approved
Quinine C₂₀H₂₄N₂O₂ Bittering agent, tonic Natural, historical use Less bitter, photosensitive Limited use
Sucrose Octaacetate C₂₈H₃₈O₁₉ Bittering agent Moderate bitter Less potent, insoluble Limited use
Bitrex (Liquid) Denatonium solution Denaturant, deterrent Ready-to-use, easy handling Higher cost, solvent included Widely approved

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing the suitability for their own applications and for complying with all local, regional, and national regulations. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Denatonium benzoate is an extremely bitter substance; handle with extreme care to avoid contamination of food, beverages, and personal care products.

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