Description
Lactic acid 85% is a concentrated, aqueous solution of lactic acid. It’s a common chemical product used across various industries, from food and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals. The “85%” refers to the concentration by weight (w/w) of lactic acid in water, with the remaining 15% being primarily water and a small amount of self-esterified lactic acid.
Chemical properties of Lactic Acid
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | C₃H₆O₃ |
| Molecular weight | 90.08 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid |
| Odor | Mild, characteristic odor |
| Concentration | 85% (aqueous solution) |
| Density | ~1.21 g/cm³ (85% solution at 20°C) |
| Boiling point | ~122°C (at reduced pressure) |
| Melting point | 16–18°C (pure lactic acid) |
| Solubility | Completely miscible in water; soluble in alcohol |
| pH (85% solution) | ~2.4–2.6 (strongly acidic) |
| Chemical nature | Organic acid (α-hydroxy acid) |
| Reactivity | Reacts with bases, alcohols, amines, and carbonates; can form lactide upon heating |
| Corrosiveness | Corrosive to metals and tissues at high concentration |
| Stability | Stable in aqueous solution; may polymerize under prolonged heating |
Applications and Uses
Due to its properties, lactic acid 85% has a wide range of applications.
Cosmetics and Skincare : Lactic acid is a popular ingredient in cosmetic products, especially as an exfoliating agent. When used in concentrations below 10%, it can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and enhance skin brightening. At higher concentrations, it’s used in professional chemical peels. It’s important to note that pure, undiluted lactic acid can cause severe skin burns.
Food and Beverage Industry : Lactic acid is used as a food preservative and flavoring agent. It provides the sour taste in many fermented foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and sourdough bread. It’s also used as an acidulant to adjust pH levels in products like cheese spreads and salad dressings.
Medical and Pharmaceutical : In medicine, lactic acid and its salts (lactates) are components of solutions used for fluid resuscitation, such as Lactated Ringer’s solution. It’s also used in the production of biodegradable polymers, like polylactic acid (PLA), which has applications in drug delivery systems and surgical sutures.
Industrial Applications : Lactic acid 85% is also used in various industrial processes, including:
Textile and leather industries: as a mordant and pH regulator.
Chemical synthesis: as a reagent to manufacture adhesives, solvents, and other chemicals.
Tobacco manufacturing: as a flavoring age.
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