Succinic acid

Product Overview

Succinic acid (butanedioic acid), CAS 110-15-6, is a versatile dicarboxylic acid that has emerged as one of the most important platform chemicals in the bio-based economy. As a white crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water, succinic acid serves as a critical building block for biodegradable plastics, food additives, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemicals.

Traditionally produced from petroleum, succinic acid is now increasingly manufactured through bio-fermentation using renewable feedstocks such as glucose and glycerol. This transition to sustainable production has positioned succinic acid at the forefront of the green chemistry revolution, with the global market projected to exceed USD 340 million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of over 8%.

Key Applications

• Biodegradable Plastics (PBS/PBAT): Primary monomer for polybutylene succinate (PBS) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) — fully compostable bioplastics used in packaging, agricultural films, and disposable products
• Food & Beverage: GRAS-certified acidulant and flavor enhancer (E363); pH regulator in beverages, gelatin desserts, and powdered drink mixes
• Pharmaceuticals: Intermediate in the synthesis of antibiotics, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory drugs; excipient in controlled-release formulations
• Personal Care & Cosmetics: Ingredient in skincare products, bath preparations, and anti-aging formulations; precursor to fragrance compounds
• Resins & Coatings: Raw material for alkyd resins, polyesters, and UV-curable coatings; improves gloss and weather resistance
• Textiles & Leather: Dyeing auxiliary, tanning agent, and fabric finishing chemical
• Agriculture: Plant growth regulator component and pesticide intermediate
• Electroplating: Brightening agent and complexing agent in electroplating baths

Product Features

• Bio-Based & Sustainable: Increasingly produced from renewable resources, supporting corporate ESG goals and circular economy initiatives
• High Purity Options: Industrial grade (≥99%), food grade (FCC/USP), and pharmaceutical grade (EP/BP) available
• Versatile Reactivity: Two carboxyl groups enable diverse chemical transformations — esterification, amidation, polymerization, and reduction
• Excellent Solubility: Highly soluble in hot water and polar solvents, facilitating easy processing and formulation
• Regulatory Compliance: FDA GRAS status, EU food additive E363, REACH registered
• Growing Market Demand: Driven by bioplastics legislation (EU single-use plastics ban, China's plastic restriction policies)
• Low Toxicity: Non-toxic, naturally occurring in living organisms; safe handling and disposal

Packaging & Supply

Standard packaging includes 25kg multi-wall paper bags with PE inner liner and 500kg jumbo bags, customized to customer specifications. Store in sealed containers in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from moisture and oxidizing agents. Shelf life: 24 months under proper storage conditions.