CAS Number: 77-92-9
Synonyms: 2-hydroxypropane – 1,2,3- tricarboxylic acid; Hydrogen citrate; 3-hydroxypentanedioic acid – 3-carboxylic acid
Brief Description
Anhydrous citric acid is produced as translucent crystals and as a white crystalline powder. It is odorless and has a strong acidic taste. Anhydrous citric acid is very soluble in water and freely soluble in alcohol. Storage in tight containers away from heat and humidity (75oF and 55% RH) is recommended. Citric acid is widely used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries to impart a clean, refreshing tartness.
Its prime use is as an acidulant, but it is also used to sequester metallic ions there-by reducing the development of off-flavors and off-odors in certain foodstuffs. A major industrial use of citric acid is in the manufacturing of ecologically compatible detergents. It is also used in chemical cleaning, concrete admixtures, plasticizers, and a range of other applications.