Overview
Gallic acid, chemically known as 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid, is a naturally occurring phenolic compound found in plants like gallnuts, tea leaves, and oak bark. It is synthesized industrially for its versatile applications in pharmaceuticals, food, and chemical industries. The compound exhibits antioxidant, antimicrobial, and astringent properties, making it valuable in multiple industrial processes. Gallic acid is also a key intermediate in the production of tannins and pyrogallol. Its derivatives are widely used in dye manufacturing and as stabilizers in the food industry. Due to its natural origin and functional versatility, it is a preferred choice in eco-friendly and health-conscious applications.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Gallic acid appears as a white to pale yellow crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 170.12 g/mol. It decomposes at temperatures between 250–265°C, making it unsuitable for high-temperature applications without stabilization. The compound is highly soluble in water, alcohol, and ether but shows limited solubility in chloroform. Its density is approximately 1.694 g/cm³, and it exhibits strong antioxidant activity due to its three hydroxyl groups. These groups also contribute to its acidity, with a pKa value around 4.4. Gallic acid's stability under normal storage conditions makes it a reliable ingredient for long-term use in formulations.
Main Applications
In the pharmaceutical industry, gallic acid is used as an active ingredient in antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory medications. Its antioxidant properties make it a popular additive in nutraceuticals and dietary supplements. The food industry employs it as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer, particularly in beverages and baked goods. Gallic acid also serves as a precursor in the synthesis of dyes, inks, and photographic developers. In analytical chemistry, it is used as a standard for phenolic content assays. Additionally, its role in tanning and leather processing highlights its industrial versatility.
Safety and Storage
Gallic acid is generally considered safe but can cause skin and eye irritation upon direct contact. Proper handling with gloves and goggles is recommended. Inhalation of dust should be avoided, and adequate ventilation is necessary in workplaces. Storage conditions require a cool, dry environment away from light and moisture to prevent degradation. The compound should be kept in tightly sealed containers to maintain purity. Disposal should follow local regulations for organic acids to minimize environmental impact.
B2B Procurement Guide
When procuring gallic acid, prioritize suppliers who provide detailed certificates of analysis (CoA) and material safety data sheets (MSDS). Verify the CAS number (149-91-7) to ensure product authenticity. Purity levels typically range from 98% to 99.5%, with higher grades commanding premium prices. Bulk purchases often attract discounts, but storage capacity and shelf life should be considered. Reputable suppliers may offer customized packaging and logistics solutions. For international shipments, ensure compliance with regional chemical import regulations.
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：加利果酸B、桉脂素、化学试剂、β-香树脂酮
- 主营：中药标准品、标准品对照品、天然化合物、标准品、分析试剂、细胞实验、动物实验、中药提取物、单体化合物、科研实验用
- 主营：酒渣碱、异常山乙素、芦丁标准品、去羟加利果酸、对照品标准品
- 主营：加利果酸B、白蜡树素、百两金素、半齿泽兰素
- 主营：对照品、科研实验、试剂盒、多糖、安石榴苷、儿茶素、绿原酸、尿石素、人参皂苷、花青素、维生素、异鼠李素、甘草系列、人参系列、补骨脂系列、雷公藤系列、黄芩系列、柴胡系列、丹参系列、酸枣仁系列、重楼系列、大黄系列、五味子系列、化合物、黄芪皂苷系列
- 主营：前胡醇、甘氨酸、毛喉帖、去羟加利果酸103974、水苏糖、金合欢、银椴苷、银杏叶、络塞定、茄边碱、鸡骨草、石蒜碱、广藿香、高良姜、绵子糖、紫苏葶、女贞子、紫苏烯、旋复花、肌氨酸、双黄酮、松脂素、甲乙基、棉花素、褪黑素、鸡骨香