Overview
Ethyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate (CAS 3943-89-3 ), also known as EDHB or protocatechuic acid ethyl ester, is a synthetic ester of protocatechuic acid used across pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic applications.
It functions as an antioxidant, antimicrobial preservative, and UV stabilizer, protecting formulations and finished products from oxidative and photochemical degradation. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it is used to stabilize active ingredients.
This compound helps extend shelf life in oral and topical dosage forms by preventing oxidation. Food and beverage producers incorporate it as an antioxidant and flavoring agent where its phenolic character contributes to stability.
It is particularly effective in fat-containing systems for maintaining sensory profiles. Cosmetic and personal care formulators apply it in suncare and anti-aging products for its UV-absorbing and antioxidant properties.
These characteristics help protect both the formulation and the skin substrate from environmental damage. It also functions as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent in preservation systems against bacteria and fungi.
The material offers activity in both leave-on and rinse-off formulations. Ethyl 3,4-dihydroxybenzoate is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder available in various purity specifications.
It is available in pharmaceutical-grade and technical-grade specifications to meet the requirements of different end markets. Packaging options typically range from laboratory quantities to bulk industrial supply.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 132-134 °C |
| Boiling Point | 275.56°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | 1.2481 (rough estimate) |
| Appearance | pale yellow to beige crystalline powder |
| Color | Pale yellow to beige |
| Odor | at 100.00?%. phenolic |
| Form | Crystalline Powder |
| Water Solubility | Insoluble in water. Soluble in ethanol. |
| Vapor Pressure | 0-9.4Pa at 20-120℃ |
| Refractive Index | 1.4500 (estimate) |
| Log P | 1.4 at 35℃ and pH6.6 |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation Precautionary Statements P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29053990 |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 3943-89-3
- EC Number
- 223-529-0
- Mol. Weight
- 182.17
- HS Code
- 29053990
- Category
- Flavors & Fragrances