Denatonium Benzoate
Bitrex, Denatonium Salt, Benzyldiethyl [(2,6-xylylcarbamoyl) methyl] ammonium benzoate.
- CAS
- 3734-33-6
- EC
- 223-095-2
- Sectors
- Automotive, Home Care & Industrial Cleaning
Denatonium Benzoate (CAS 3734-33-6) is an ammonium benzoate salt supplied as a white crystalline solid that ranks as the most bitter substance known, effective at concentrations as low as 10 parts per million, and is used mainly as an aversive agent in alcohol denaturation, automotive fluids and household products. This Technical Grade solid is essential for denaturing alcohols and preventing accidental ingestion of hazardous household products. Its high stability across various temperatures and pH levels makes it an ideal additive for diverse liquid formulations. In the automotive sector, it is a mandatory additive for antifreeze and coolants to protect wildlife and children. The compound’s odorless property ensures it does not interfere with the primary fragrance or function of the end product.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C21H29N2O.C7H5O2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 446.58 g/mol |
| Appearance | white crystals |
| Form | Solid |
| Color | White to Off-White |
| Odor | at 100.00?%. bland |
| Melting point | 168 °C |
| Water solubility | 42.555g/L at 25°C |
| Flash point | 100°C |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful |
| HS code | 29242995 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Denatonium Benzoate
Applications
- Alcohol Denaturation: Added to ethanol and isopropyl alcohol to make them unfit for human consumption, often for tax or safety purposes.
- Automotive Fluids: Integrated into ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and windshield washer fluids as a safety bittering agent.
- Household Products: Used in liquid detergents, disinfectants, and garden chemicals to discourage accidental swallowing.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Acute Toxic (Oral) and a Skin/Eye Irritant. While used in small doses, the pure form requires Dust Masks (N95), Safety Glasses, and Protective Gloves during blending.
Packaging
Commonly supplied in 1 kg Tins, 5 kg Foil Bags, and 25 kg Fiber Drums for large-scale industrial compounding.