R-Alpha-Lipoic Acid
α-(+)-Lipoic acid, α-lipoic acid, α-Lipoic acid, (+)-thioctic acid
- CAS
- 1200-22-2
- EC
- 638-752-2
- Sectors
- Nutraceuticals & Supplements, Food & Nutrition
R-Alpha-Lipoic Acid (CAS 1200-22-2) is the naturally occurring enantiomer of alpha-lipoic acid, a vitamin-like organosulfur compound that presents as a light yellow to yellow crystalline solid and is used as a food-grade antioxidant cofactor in capsule and tablet formulations and in fortified foods and beverages. It presents as a light yellow to yellow crystalline solid, melting point 46–48 °C, density approximately 1.218 g/cm³, with limited water solubility and solubility in organic solvents. As the biologically active form of lipoic acid, R-ALA functions as a cofactor in mitochondrial enzyme complexes and is used as a nutraceutical ingredient in food-grade applications.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C8H14O2S2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 206.33 g/mol |
| Appearance | Yellow Crystalline Solid |
| Form | Solid |
| Color | Light Yellow to Yellow |
| Melting point | 46-48 °C |
| Boiling point | 160-165 °C @ Press: 0.4 Torr |
| Flash point | >230 °F |
| GHS signal word | Warning · Irritant / harmful |
| HS code | 29349990 |
| Grades available | Food 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.
R-Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Applications
- Nutraceuticals & Supplements: food-grade antioxidant cofactor in capsules and tablets
- Pharmaceuticals: active or excipient ingredient in oral dosage forms
- Cosmetics: antioxidant active in topical skin-care formulations
- Food & Nutrition: functional ingredient in fortified foods and beverages
- Biochemical Research: reagent for enzyme cofactor and metabolic studies
Safety & Risks
GHS Warning: H302 (harmful if swallowed), H315 (skin irritation), H319 (serious eye irritation), H335 (respiratory irritation). Use appropriate PPE including gloves and eye protection. Store away from heat and moisture; keep container tightly closed.
Packaging
Supplied in 25 kg fibre drums or cartons; 1–5 kg small-lot options available. Store cool, dry, away from light.