Ethyl Ascorbic Acid represents a newer generation of vitamin C derivatives. Chemically, it stands out as 3-O-Ethyl-Ascorbic Acid with a molecular formula of C8H12O6 and a molecular weight of 204.18 g/mol. Found as a solid, crystalline powder, its unmistakable white color and odorless nature make it stand out during material selection. My first experience handling it in a lab highlighted its stable texture and solid form, making it easy to store and measure in research and product development settings.
The chemical structure of Ethyl Ascorbic Acid features an ethyl group bonded to the third carbon of ascorbic acid. This simple but key modification sets it apart from pure ascorbic acid, enhancing both stability and solubility. Hydrophilic but more resilient against oxidation than pure vitamin C, this compound often appears as flakes or tiny crystals. In powdered form, it pours cleanly and mixes readily with other substances. Bulk density usually sits between 0.35 and 0.55 g/cm³. Melting point stays well above 110°C, ensuring the compound holds up under demanding processing conditions. Ethyl Ascorbic Acid dissolves efficiently in water, ethanol, and propylene glycol. From my time working with skin care actives, easy solubility saves time and effort in formulating serums and creams.
Material suppliers typically grade Ethyl Ascorbic Acid at purities of 99% or above, which speaks to its suitability for cosmetic and pharmaceutical markets. Most shipments arrive as a solid powder, although the substance can take on a crystalline or even flake-like appearance, depending on supplier processing. It may also be delivered as a solution dissolved in water or light alcohols for more direct formulation work. The HS Code for international transport classifies under 29362700 or a similar root for organic compounds, which matters for import/export paperwork and customs documentation.
One of the main advantages of Ethyl Ascorbic Acid revolves around improved stability. Ordinary ascorbic acid oxidizes and browns quickly outside cool, airtight storage. Add the ethyl group, and the molecule resists this degradation for much longer. In practical terms, that means a jar of Ethyl Ascorbic Acid powder holds potency for months on the warehouse shelf, so manufacturers do not lose efficiency or money from spoiled raw materials. Handling safety levels stay fairly high compared to more reactive chemicals. In my own experience, gloves and eye protection are enough when transferring the powder. Though it does not carry severe hazards or harmful byproducts during standard use, regulatory data sheets still advise against inhalation or prolonged direct skin contact, echoing basic chemical safety for all raw materials.
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid fits well in both cosmetic and pharmaceutical product development. Its high stability and brightening effects have influenced many formulations, such as serums for skin tone or anti-oxidative lotions. Dermatologists who have tested this material report high results in melanin inhibition and protection against oxidative stress at lower concentrations than pure ascorbic acid. Experience shows that this ingredient preserves its function better during storage, especially inside emulsions, compared to the vitamin C alternatives of a decade ago. Outside the world of creams and topical solutions, Ethyl Ascorbic Acid has earned a spot in oral supplements because of its resistance to breakdown in the presence of oxygen or heat.
In terms of sourcing, my colleagues and I have found most reliable suppliers operate in regions with strong regulatory oversight, providing transparent specification sheets and safety documentation. Regulatory guidance remains clear on Ethyl Ascorbic Acid thanks to its quick adoption into leading cosmetic and nutraceutical standards. Strict batch testing for purity, solvent residue, and particle characteristics reinforces consumer trust and production efficiency. Shipping requirements flag it as a non-hazardous solid in most international codes, reducing logistical hurdles for global firms. That said, best practices dictate thorough recordkeeping—batch number, HS Code, and procurement dates—minimizing questions during audits or recalls.
Chemical structure sits at the root of Ethyl Ascorbic Acid’s functionality. Attaching an ethyl group to the core vitamin C molecule prevents the rapid breakdown normally seen in acidic or high-heat processing. I remember when pure ascorbic acid serums would oxidize and darken after just a week on the shelf; Ethyl Ascorbic Acid avoids this, giving both manufacturers and consumers a real advantage. Structural stability also opens doors for incorporating this raw material in a wider range of products, including blends that undergo heat, strong mixing, or pH shifts during production. These physical characteristics address one of the long-standing hurdles in formulating with vitamin C derivatives.
From my direct experience, correct storage conditions drastically extend the shelf life and preserves the potency of Ethyl Ascorbic Acid. Keep it dry, cool, and shielded from light to prevent unwanted reactions or moisture absorption. Storage bins with tight seals limit both contamination and exposure to humidity, important for facilities with diverse raw material inventories. While the compound does not present severe reactivity or hazardous breakdown, good hygiene guidelines—gloves, dust masks during bulk transfers, and regular cleaning of dosing equipment—promote operator safety and product quality. Ongoing staff training on chemical handling supports safer workflow and reliable upstream production.
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid brings lots of benefits, though industrial users do face some challenges. Supply chain fluctuations in key feedstocks, such as ascorbic acid and ethanol, occasionally raise costs or delay deliveries—the same problem seen with many fine chemicals. Building stronger supplier relationships and planning for six-month inventories has helped the teams I’ve worked with sidestep these disruptions. Maintaining accurate chemical inventory records speeds responses to any sudden regulatory changes or market recalls. Another issue arises during formulation; this active can clump if added to water without proper agitation or dispersion, leading to waste and production downtime. Adequate mixing systems, slow powder addition, and the use of pre-dissolved concentrates ease this hurdle. Focusing on quality control from warehouse receipt through in-line mixing creates less risk of performance drift or product returns.
To wrap up with the specs that matter for most researchers and industrial operators: Ethyl Ascorbic Acid’s molecular structure (C8H12O6), melting point above 110°C, bulk density between 0.35 and 0.55 g/cm³, and white crystalline powder form simplifies ingredient mixing, inventory, and final product testing. Its role as a raw material now stretches from skincare to supplements, supported by high purity and compliance with safety and content regulations. Companies that select this compound place themselves in a good position for stable supply, reliable product outcomes, and ongoing innovation as consumer demand for brightening, stable vitamin C sources grows each year.
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