Adipic Acid HOOC(CH2)4COOH

Adipic Acid HOOC(CH2)4COOH

HOOC(CH2)4COOH

Properties: Adipic acid is a 6-carbon straight chain dicarboxylic acid. Slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol and acetone. Almost all commercial adipic acid is produced from cyclohexane by two-stage oxidation. The first oxidation producing cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol is the reaction of cyclohexane and oxygen at 150-160^oC in the presence of cobalt and manganese catalysts. Then the components proceed with or without reaction with nitric acid. Adipic acid has two carboxyl groups. Adipic acid derivatives, alkyl halides, anhydrides, esters, amides and nitriles are used to produce target products such as sweetening agents, internal plasticizers, insecticides, dyes, textile treatment agents, fungicides and pharmaceuticals.

Applications: 90% of adipic acid is consumed in industry for nylon production by polycondensation with hexamethylenediamine. Predominantly used for production of nylon 6,6 polymer for fibers and plastics. Nylon has a protein-like structure and can be further processed into fibers for applications in carpets (felts), automobile tire cords and apparel. Adipic acid is used in production of plasticizer and lubricant components. Used in production of polyester polyols for polyurethane systems. Technical grade adipic acid is used to produce plasticizers, to add flexibility and to give flexibility to unsaturated polyesters. Used in production of rigid and flexible foams, production of wire coatings, elastomers and adhesives, increases flexibility of alkyd resins, used in production of wet strength resins for paper chemicals industry and production of synthetic lubricants and oils.

Food grade adipic acid is used to enhance rapid setting in gelatins, provide acidity (gives smooth and sharp tartness) and protect against quality loss. Also can be used in beverages, seasonings, flavor enhancers, dairy product examples, solid and liquid fats, frozen dairy desserts, puddings, meat broths, meat products and snack foods. Used as acidity regulator in dry powder mixtures. Used in foods providing long-lasting tartness. Used as acidity regulator in fruit-flavored candies.