DL-Tartaric acid anhydrous is a synthetic organic acid with broad utility across industries. The compound appears as a white, crystalline solid, often sold in flakes, powder, or crystal forms. Official molecular formula is C4H6O6, signaling its relationship to natural tartaric acids that exist in fruits like grapes, yet this version is racemic — a 50:50 mix of its D- and L- isomers. Specific gravity of this material typically sits near 1.76 g/cm³. It dissolves well in water and ethanol, and solution in water tastes sour, echoing its acidic character. HS Code classifies this chemical under 2918.12.0000, categorizing it for customs and regulatory paperwork as a carboxylic acid product.
The structure includes two carboxylic acid groups and two hydroxyl groups, making DL-Tartaric acid a versatile material. Its melting point hovers around 200°C, although some decomposition may start at lower temperatures if exposed to open air for too long. Chemically, the solid form remains stable under ordinary storage, but solutions should stay protected from heat and contamination. Since the DL form blends both natural (L) and synthetic (D) types, properties sit very close to those of pure tartaric acid in both reactivity and acidity. Across food, textile, and pharmaceutical workspaces, DL-tartaric acid acts as a raw material for fermentation, acidification, and chelation.
In hand, DL-Tartaric acid anhydrous comes as odorless, colorless crystals, sometimes as fine powder or chunky flakes depending on how it’s been processed. Pure form stands out thanks to the absence of moisture, and while some suppliers ship it in pearl or granular cuts to suit different methods of dosing, whether in liters for chemical solutions or by the kilogram in raw material sacks, the chemistry does not change. Much of the global market sticks to powder or flakes, since those types mix easily with water or other liquids for rapid use in manufacturing. Bulk density averages about 0.9 g/cm³, and it clumps when exposed to humidity, so tight sealing is a must.
Customers buying DL-Tartaric acid anhydrous expect certain purities, usually above 99.5%. Impurity thresholds matter, especially if the material goes into pharmaceuticals or food. From a safety point of view, buyers want to see heavy metal contents below 10 ppm and sulfate residues below 0.015%. pH in a reference solution stays in the strong acidic range, roughly 1.7–2.2, depending on concentration. Specifications sheet usually covers lead, arsenic, and other harmful substances, plus packing details — 25 kg bags or fiber drums to avoid water ingress. For customs and global shipping paperwork, manufacturers list the HS Code, the chemical’s CAS number (133-37-9), and standardized hazard symbols.
DL-Tartaric acid anhydrous ranks as mildly hazardous. Direct skin or eye contact can cause irritation, and large ingestion risks upset stomach or esophageal corrosion. Dust inhalation should stay low; workers often wear gloves and protective glasses while scooping or pouring. Material Safety Data Sheets point out risks like respiratory irritation and recommend thorough washing after use. Storage should keep the material in dry, well-ventilated, non-metallic environments, since prolonged exposure to moisture raises the risk of clumping and spoiling. For safe shipment, containers need proper sealing since acidic dust can ruin paperwork and labels on neighboring cargo.
Industry relies on DL-tartaric acid as a buffer, acidifier, chelating agent, and even as a coagulant in food-manufacturing. Its ability to stabilize pH and react predictably in chemical synthesis earns it a place in medicine, beverage formulation, and dyeing processes. Making DL-tartaric acid involves mixing maleic acid or fumaric acid with hydrogen peroxide and heat, creating a synthetic path not dependent on agricultural yield. This uncoupling of supply from fruit harvests both steadies global price and gives manufacturers flexibility in sourcing. Sterile conditions during manufacture help prevent contamination — crucial where the finished product heads for oral or injectable pharmaceuticals.
Chemical plants processing DL-tartaric acid face environmental obligations, such as minimizing acid runoff and disposing of cleaning solutions through approved waste channels. Regulatory frameworks expect companies to document hazard categories and prevent leaks or emissions; otherwise, groundwater quality may suffer. Safer packaging, clear labelling, and worker training all shape the day-to-day reality for stakeholders in this market. For buyers, choosing a supplier with solid quality control records can mean the difference between a safe, reliable batch and a shipment that disrupts whole production lines due to safety or compliance failures.
Anyone working in food chemistry, beverage production, or drug formulation needs to know components on a detailed level. DL-tartaric acid anhydrous may look plain, but its purity standards, structure, and hazard ratings impact worker safety, batch outcomes, and final product compliance. Products that rely heavily on this material — whether as a raw ingredient or a solution in liter jugs — face real risks where impurity creeps in or safety slips. Knowing these details helps workers and managers take practical steps: strict seals, solid personal protective equipment, and greater care in material sourcing. Overlooking chemical properties or storage realities leaves critical processes open to failure or health hazards.
Providing high-quality chemical products and logistics solutions for global trade partners.
