Levulinic Acid

Levulinic Acid (CAS No. 123-76-2) appears as a yellow to brown liquid that may congeal at lower temperatures, with a mild caramellic odor. It is commonly used in the production of pharmaceuticals, plastics, and flavorings, and is valued for its solubility in water, alcohol, and oils.

Technical Specifications

Packaging and Storage

• Net weight 25kg/200kg plastic drum or 1000kg IBC drum.
• Store in a dry, cool and ventilated warehouse.

Key Features and Benefits of Levulinic Acid

Bio-Based and Sustainable:
Sourced from renewable biomass, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon footprints in production processes.

High Versatility:
Acts as a precursor for a wide range of derivatives, including gamma-valerolactone, ethyl levulinate, and succinic acid.

Excellent Solubility:
Highly soluble in water, alcohols, and ethers, facilitating easy integration into formulations.

Stability and Reactivity:
Features a stable keto-carboxylic acid structure that enables diverse chemical reactions, such as esterification and hydrogenation.

Applications of Levulinic Acid

Levulinic Acid’s multifunctional properties make it indispensable in various sectors.

Pharmaceuticals:
Serves as a precursor for drugs and nutritional supplements. Its calcium salt (calcium levulinate) is used in intravenous injections and as a calcium supplement to aid in bone health and metabolic functions.

Polymers and Plastics:
Employed in the synthesis of biodegradable plastics, nylon, synthetic rubbers, and plasticizers, promoting sustainable packaging and materials.

Agriculture and Food:
Acts as a preservative and flavoring agent in food products; in agriculture, it’s used in herbicides and plant growth regulators to improve crop yields.

Cosmetics and Personal Care:
Incorporated into skincare formulations for its humectant properties, helping maintain moisture and stability in creams and lotions.

Industrial Chemicals:
Utilized in resins, coatings, textiles, animal feeds, and antifreeze solutions, where it improves durability and performance.

Fragrances and Flavors:
Contributes to the creation of synthetic musks and fruity aromas in perfumes and food flavorings.

Safety and Handling Information

Precautions: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing. Wash thoroughly after handling. Avoid ingestion, inhalation, or contact with skin and eyes. In case of exposure, rinse affected areas with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials. Keep containers tightly closed.
First Aid: For eye contact, flush with water for at least 15 minutes. For skin contact, wash with soap and water. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main industrial uses of Levulinic Acid?
It is widely used in pharmaceuticals, biofuels, polymers, food preservatives, cosmetics, and fragrances. Its derivatives expand applications to resins, coatings, and more.

Is Levulinic Acid safe for use in food?
Yes, Levulinic Acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring agent and preservative in food.

What are the handling and safety precautions for Levulinic Acid?
It is a mild irritant; wear protective gloves and eyewear during handling. Avoid inhalation and store away from strong oxidizers. In case of contact, rinse with water.

Where can I buy high-quality Levulinic Acid?

You can contact us via email [email protected] for offers and bulk orders.