Dicaffeoyl tartaric acid shows up in nature as an organic compound where two caffeic acid molecules join with a tartaric acid backbone. The molecular formula C18H14O10 points to a complex arrangement of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. In a pure state, this compound can form yellowish to light brown flakes or a fine crystalline powder that holds up well under normal conditions. Most of the time, it lands in the category of solid organic acids, and when pressed in the palm, it will not dissolve or lose its structure in dry conditions. The melting point usually sits in a moderate range, and it doesn’t steam or emit strong odors, setting it apart from more volatile acids.
Whether handled as a powder, flakes, or granules, the substance gives off a faint earthy aroma, suggesting its plant-based roots. Density floats close to 1.7 g/cm³, placing it in line with other sturdy organic molecules that resist easy breakdown or foaming. Crystal forms tend to be stable at room temperature, so labs do not worry about dramatic shifts unless extreme heat gets involved. Solubility in water runs low; only a portion dissolves without added agitation, making it tricky in purely water-based solutions. Alcohols mix better with it. Acids and bases shift its dissolution and stability, and pH adjustments influence its color and reaction in blends. Metric details like physical state–solid at 20°C, slightly hygroscopic–are all crucial for suppliers and buyers aiming for reproducibility and quality.
Chemists recognize its core: the two caffeoyl groups attach across the tartaric scaffold, creating a structure that absorbs UV light and gives rise to its mild antioxidant properties. Molecular weight balances out at about 390.29 g/mol. The core ester groups signal both vulnerability and potency. Impurities change its reactivity, so high-purity forms (those above 98%) are standard for both research and raw material use. With the right conditions, it sits as a colorless-to-straw yellow crystalline material, rarely streaked with color unless mixed or aged.
Producers supply dicaffeoyl tartaric acid as a bulk solid, with flake, crystalline, and powder sales dominating. Laboratories depend on repeatable specifications: purity ranges (often above 98%), established melting point, accurate density readings, and documented loss-on-drying values. Quality control checks every batch for contaminants, which must stay below parts per million to meet both industrial and research demands. Each kilogram comes labeled to comply with chemical safety rules, including international restrictions and documentation.
Most wealth in functional foods and nutraceuticals—those are places this acid finds regular use, riding on studies exploring its antioxidant properties. Suppliers and formulators benefit from knowing every detail, as quality swings can change product safety or efficacy. Extraction typically relies on green plants, especially coffee-related sources, and the material’s origin changes everything from color grade to heavy metal content. Chemical handling guides warn about eye and respiratory irritation, so gloves and filtration masks are common when working with flakes or powders. Large spills rarely pose explosive or highly toxic threats, but chronic exposure over many years can’t yet be ruled out given gaps in research on inhalation and absorption.
For customs or trade, the international HS Code draws clarity: Dicaffeoyl tartaric acid falls under heading 2918 (carboxylic acids with additional oxygen function), and that number smooths the process at borders. Accurate reporting under this code—usually 2918199090 at detailed levels—ensures buyers receive uninterrupted shipments, and suppliers avoid costly documentation setbacks. Chemical identification slips into databases alongside CAS numbers, UN identifiers for transport, and mandatory shipping labels for any potentially hazardous material.
While most laboratory data suggests a relatively low toxicity, proper storage in cool, sealed containers preserves the compound’s stability and thwarts oxidation. Handling the powder or flakes means avoiding direct skin and eye contact since acids bring a low but real risk of irritation after repeated contact. Waste protocols for acids like this demand secure containment; flushing down ordinary drains or discarding in loose landfill endangers groundwater. Emergency response sheets emphasize simple actions: isolate spills, avoid dust creation, and ventilate workspaces. Flammability rarely tops the risk chart, but spontaneous decomposition under extreme heating could release irritating or toxic fumes that workers must avoid.
With dicaffeoyl tartaric acid standing as a key research target in food science and chemistry, reliable details on its structure, purity, storage, and safety matter to everyone on the supply chain—especially as more nutrients and antioxidants travel globally. Careful sourcing, strict purity standards, robust packaging, and responsible chemical safety all blend to keep things running smoothly for producers, buyers, and end users who count on consistency and clear communication.
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