ADIPIC ACID (CH₂)₄(COOH)₂

---

ABOUT:

• Used as a starting material for the production of nylon-6,6 
• Used as a food and cosmetic ingredient
• Used in the production of polyurethanes and other polymers.

Adipic acid is typically manufactured through a multi-step process that involves the oxidation of cyclohexanol. The process includes the following steps:

• Cyclohexanol oxidation to produce cyclohexanone, which is then further oxidized to produce cyclohexenoic acid.
• Cyclohexenoic acid esterification to produce adipic acid ester.
• Adipic acid hydrolysis to produce adipic acid.
• The adipic acid is then purified through distillation and crystallization to obtain a high-purity product.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES:

Appearance: Colorless to white crystals

Odour: Odourless crystals

Taste: Sour taste

Melting point:152-154°C

Boiling point:324°C

pH value:4.4

Molecular weight:146.14 g/mol

Density:1.41 g/cm3 (at 20°C)

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES:

• Adipic acid is a dicarboxylic acid meaning it contains two carboxyl functional groups (-COOH).
• It is soluble in water and polar solvents and is insoluble in nonpolar solvents.

APPLICATIONS:

• Adipic acid is a key ingredient in the production of nylon, which is used in the automobile industry as an engineering plastic, to make carpet fibers; and fabric used in seat belts, airbags etc.
• Adipic Acid is a raw material for the production of polyurethane foams.
• Adipic acid is used as a feedstock in the production of other chemicals, such as alkyd resins and plasticizers.
• In fiber processing, adipic acid can be used as a co-monomer to modify the properties of synthetic fibers, such as improving their resistance to heat and abrasion.
• Adipic acid is used as a raw material in the production of polyurethane (PU) foam, which is commonly used as an insole material in the footwear industry.
• Adipic acid-based PU resins are commonly used in industrial and protective coatings, as well as in the production of flexible and rigid foams.
• The high reactivity of adipic acid makes it a suitable ingredient in crosslinked polyurethane (CLPU) coatings, which are known for their excellent resistance to abrasion, chemical, and thermal degradation.

SAFETY MEASURES:

• Protective Clothing: Wear gloves, eye protection, and a laboratory coat to minimize skin and eye exposure.
• Respiratory Protection: Adipic acid can release fumes that are irritating to the eyes, nose, and throat. Use proper respiratory protection such as a mask or respirator to prevent inhalation of fumes.
• Ventilation: Ensure that the work area is well-ventilated to minimize the concentration of fumes in the air.
• Spill Response: Adipic acid is a highly corrosive substance and can cause serious skin and eye damage if it comes into contact with the skin. Keep a spill response kit available and know how to use it.
• Storage: Store adipic acid in a cool, dry place, away from heat and flame sources. Store containers in a well-ventilated area, away from incompatible materials.
• Label and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): Ensure that all containers of adipic acid are clearly labeled and that the MSDS is readily accessible in case of an emergency.