Succinic Acid
Amber Acid, Butanedioic Acid
- CAS
- 110-15-6
- EC
- 203-740-4
- Food Code
- E363
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Pharma & Healthcare, Water & Wastewater Treatment
Succinic Acid (CAS 110-15-6), also known as butanedioic acid, is a white to off-white crystalline organic acid powder supplied in Food Grade under the food additive code E363; it is used as a pH adjuster in food, as an excipient in pharmaceuticals and in water treatment. It has a density of 1.56 g/cm³, melting point 185-187°C, and is soluble in water (83 g/L at 25°C). Odorless with acidic taste, hygroscopic, and produced via fermentation or synthesis.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C4H6O4 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 118.09 g/mol |
| Appearance | colourless odourless prisms or white crystalline powder |
| Form | Powder/Solid |
| Color | White to off-white |
| Odor | at 100.00 %. wormwood |
| Melting point | 188 °C |
| Boiling point | 235 °C |
| Density | 1.572 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Water solubility | 80 g/L (20 °C) |
| Flash point | >230 °F |
| pH | 2.7 (10g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful |
| HS code | 29171990 |
| 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.
Succinic Acid
Applications
Used as a pH adjuster in food, excipient in pharmaceuticals, precursor in chemicals, and in biodegradable plastics; also in water treatment and dyes.
Safety & Risks
GRAS status; corrosive to eyes and skin, causes burns. Avoid strong oxidizers; use PPE and ventilation; low aquatic toxicity.
Packaging
In 25kg bags or drums with PE liners; store in cool, dry places; rinse for recycling or disposal punctured in landfills.