Tartaric acid DL,L represents a type of tartaric acid containing both the D and L isomers in equal proportions, making it a racemic mixture. This compound falls under the organic acid category and carries significant value as both a raw material and additive in chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries. Chemically, the tartaric acid molecule has the formula C4H6O6, and its molecular mass stands at 150.09 g/mol. With its crystalline structure, the material tends to form colorless or white solid crystals, occasionally appearing in the form of flakes or powder. The HS Code used for trade regulation and identification frequently lists tartaric acid under 29181200, making international handling straightforward for customs and compliance.
As a crystalline solid at room temperature, the density of tartaric acid DL,L is measured at approximately 1.76 g/cm³, placing it above average density among organic acids. It melts at around 200°C, demonstrating notable thermal stability for safe storage at common ambient conditions. Tartaric acid DL,L shows high solubility in water, producing clear, acidic solutions across a range of concentrations, often up to 130 g per liter at 20°C. The acid structure gives it potent chelating and buffering properties, which strengthens its usefulness in complex industries from metal finishing to food preservation. With a pKa value of 3.0 and 4.4, it contributes robustly to acidity when used in solution, without leaving undesirable residues.
In practice, tartaric acid DL,L is available mostly as a fine powder, though it occasionally appears as larger crystalline pearls or flakes based on processing methods. My hands-on experience in laboratories shows that this substance dissolves nearly instantly in water and ethanol, which makes it favorable for rapid-mix applications. Since the chemical is hygroscopic, open storage leads to clumping and loss of purity, reinforcing the need for moisture-proof packaging. Material handling guidelines encourage the use of gloves and safety glasses, preventing unnecessary skin or eye exposure, since concentrated forms exhibit corrosiveness. Large-scale manufacturers extract it mostly from fermented plant matter, including grape, making supply relatively stable but still subject to agricultural market variables.
With its prominent acidity, tartaric acid DL,L presents hazards if mishandled. Direct contact with skin produces irritation, and inhaled dust can be harmful with repeated exposure. Safety data supplied by regulatory bodies including OSHA and the European Chemicals Agency classify it as an irritant, not a carcinogen. The compound is not considered environmentally persistent, as it biodegrades rapidly in water and soil, though accidental spills require swift neutralization to avoid local acidity spikes. Storage recommendations highlight cool, dry locations in sealed containers with clear labeling. Fire risk remains low since it is not flammable, simplifying warehouse management. National and international transport underscores the HS Code 29181200 to align with customs and ensure traceability throughout the supply chain.
Rarely does a single material fit so neatly across sectors—tartaric acid DL,L stands testament to that, acting from food processing to advanced manufacturing. In food, this acid helps regulate acidity, stabilize egg whites, and prevent sugar crystallization in jellies and syrups. It supports the pharmaceutical sector as a key intermediate in drug formulation, enhancing stability in effervescent tablets and acting as a pH control agent for oral solutions. Industrial operations rely on tartaric acid for metal cleaning, electroplating, and as a chelating agent in dyes and tanning. My observations in a pilot plant highlighted its performance as an environmentally safer alternative to harsher acids, with lower reactivity and more predictable results.
Consistent product quality remains a concern in the tartaric acid market, especially as demand grows from both food and chemical manufacturers. Quality control laboratories utilize advanced instruments to confirm identity, purity, and physical form, such as powder, flake, or crystalline solid, and manufacturers invest in analytical technologies like HPLC and NMR for verification. Accidental exposure incidents still arise, usually from bulk handling mistakes or poor ventilation. One promising solution is increasing automation and environmental monitoring in production facilities, reducing worker risk and improving safety compliance. Also, as industries look to reduce hazardous waste, tartaric acid’s low toxicity and excellent biodegradability give it a distinct edge over petroleum-derived acids, helping companies align with tightening environmental regulations worldwide.
Years spent working with chemicals in both small labs and large production settings have shown that tartaric acid DL,L deserves attention beyond its basic data sheets. Its unique structure, effective chemical properties, and practical density range make it versatile. Still, it comes with responsibility: researchers and industrial users both must treat this “simple” acid as a compound requiring respect for its corrosive potential and chemical reactivity. By fostering a deeper appreciation of its molecular form, HS code relevance, safety profile, and applications, buyers and handlers can continue to benefit from tartaric acid while upholding high standards for both personal safety and environmental care across the supply chain.
Providing high-quality chemical products and logistics solutions for global trade partners.
