Overview
m-Toluic acid (CAS 99-04-7 ), also known as 3-MBA, is an aromatic carboxylic acid used as a building block and functional intermediate across pharmaceutical synthesis, specialty coatings, and preservation applications.
Its reactivity as an acid intermediate makes it a reliable starting material where controlled esterification or salt formation is required. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, 3-MBA serves as a key intermediate in synthesis.
This is particularly useful where a substituted benzoic acid scaffold is required. Coatings and resin formulators use it as a catalyst precursor or crosslinking component to influence cure rates and film performance.
In preservation systems, it functions as a biocidal agent in industrial formulations where microbial control is needed without relying on halogenated compounds. This ensures safety and efficacy in various systems.
Personal care chemists incorporate it into select formulations as an antioxidant stabilizer to extend product shelf life. This versatility makes it a staple for formulators looking for reliable chemical stability.
m-Toluic acid is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder. Standard commercial grades include technical and pharmaceutical-grade material, with pharma-grade product typically meeting USP or BP specifications.
Bulk quantities are available for industrial procurement alongside smaller quantities for R&D and formulation development. This ensures that both large scale manufacturers and research labs have access to the material.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 108.7 °C |
| Boiling Point | 215-216 °C |
| Density | 1.054 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Flash Point | 150 °C |
| Appearance | White to yellowish crystals. Ionization constant 5.3 × 10?5. Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol and ether. Combustible. |
| Color | Slightly yellow to beige-yellow |
| Odor | Floral-honey odor |
| Form | Crystalline Solid |
| Water Solubility | <0.1 g/100 mL at 19 ºC |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.019Pa at 25℃ |
| Refractive Index | 1.509 |
| pH | 3.4 (H2O, 20℃)(saturated solution) |
| Log P | 2.37 |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS05 GHS07 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H318 Causes serious eye damage Precautionary Statements 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. P330 Rinse mouth. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. 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 Code | 29163900 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 99-04-7
- EC Number
- 202-723-9
- Mol. Weight
- 136.15
- HS Code
- 29163900
- Category
- Pharmaceutical Intermediates