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Organic Acids

Salicylic acid

CAS: 69-72-7

Overview

Salicylic acid (CAS 69-72-7 ) is an organic acid used across pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food applications primarily for its preservative, keratolytic, and stabilizing functions. FEMA 3985 status supports its use as a flavoring agent in regulated food contexts.

Procurement interest centers on its dual role as both an active ingredient and a functional additive. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of aspirin and as an active in topical acne treatments.

Cosmetic formulators incorporate it into exfoliating cleansers, anti-dandruff shampoos, and peeling agents where controlled keratolytic action is required. It is valued for its ability to penetrate pores and improve skin texture effectively.

Food and beverage producers reference its flavoring designation for applications, particularly in small-quantity use within regulated formulations. It also functions as a preservative in certain topical and industrial preparations where microbial control is needed.

The material is supplied as a white crystalline powder in both pharmaceutical and technical grades. USP , BP , and Ph. Eur. grades are standard for regulated pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications to ensure purity.

Technical grade is available for industrial and intermediate synthesis use where compendial certification is not required. This grade offers a cost-effective solution for large-scale manufacturing and chemical processing requirements.

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Physical Properties

Melting Point157-159 °C
Boiling Point~211 °C (approx) @ Press: 20 Torr
Density1.443 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point157 °C
AppearanceSalicylic acid is a white to tan crystalline solid; needles.
ColorWhite to off-white
Odorat 100.00 %. faint phenolic nutty
FormSolid
Water Solubility1.8 g/L (20 ºC)
Vapor Pressure1 mm Hg ( 114 °C)
Refractive Index1,565
pH2.4 (H2O)(saturated solution)
Log P2.01

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS08 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H312 Harmful in contact with skin H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. 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. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P305+P354+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 Code29182100
UN Number1648
ADR Class3
Packing GroupII
WGK (Germany)1

Other Names

phenol-2-carboxylic acid | o-hydroxybenzoic acid | o-carboxyphenol | 2-hydroxybenzoic acid | 2-hydroxybenzenecarboxylic acid | 2-carboxyphenol | Retarder W | Rutranex

Related Products

Chemical Properties

CAS Number
69-72-7
EC Number
200-712-3
Mol. Weight
138.12
HS Code
29182100

Industries

Documentation