Fumaric Acid is a crystalline dicarboxylic acid used in food formulations, resin production, and other chemical applications. Its acidic properties, relatively low water solubility, and solid physical form give it a different role from more readily soluble organic acids.
For manufacturers, these characteristics are relevant when selecting Fumaric Acid for a specific formulation or production process.
Key Characteristics of Fumaric Acid
Fumaric Acid is the trans isomer of Maleic Acid, with the molecular formula C₄H₄O₄. It occurs as a white or colorless crystalline solid and has a molecular weight of 116.07 g/mol.
|
Item |
Information |
|
Chemical Name |
Fumaric Acid |
|
CAS No. |
110-17-8 |
|
Molecular Formula |
C₄H₄O₄ |
|
Molecular Weight |
116.07 g/mol |
|
Other Name |
trans-Butenedioic Acid |
|
Appearance |
White or colorless crystalline solid |
|
Melting Point |
Approximately 287°C (decomposes) |
The relatively low water solubility of Fumaric Acid is an important characteristic in formulation and processing, particularly where dissolution behavior needs to be considered.
The Role of Solubility in Fumaric Acid Applications
Fumaric Acid is less readily soluble in water than many commonly used organic acids. This affects how it is incorporated into formulations and how it dissolves during processing or use.
For dry or powdered products, this property is relevant because it affects how Fumaric Acid dissolves and contributes acidity within the formulation. The appropriate acid depends on the formulation, processing conditions, and desired product characteristics.
Rather than treating solubility simply as a specification value, manufacturers should consider how it fits the requirements of the finished product.
Fumaric Acid in Food Formulations
Fumaric Acid is used in food applications as an acidulant and for functions including pH control and flavoring. FDA records also identify uses such as antimicrobial, curing or pickling, and leavening applications under specified regulatory provisions.
Its use in food formulations makes Fumaric Acid relevant to manufacturers working with dry mixes and other processed food products where controlled acidity is required.
For buyers sourcing Fumaric Acid for food applications, the required product specification and documentation should be confirmed according to the intended market and regulatory requirements.
Fumaric Acid in Unsaturated Polyester Resin
Fumaric Acid also has an established role in resin manufacturing.
Its dicarboxylic acid structure and carbon-carbon double bond allow it to participate in polyester resin formulations. It can be used in unsaturated polyester resin systems and other resin applications where an unsaturated dibasic acid is required.
This makes Fumaric Acid relevant to manufacturers of resins, coatings, and related chemical products. The required specification can vary depending on the resin formulation and production process.
Fumaric Acid and Maleic Acid Are Not Simply Interchangeable
Fumaric Acid and Maleic Acid have the same molecular formula but different molecular configurations. Fumaric Acid has a trans configuration, while Maleic Acid has a cis configuration. Fumaric Acid is identified by NIST as the E stereoisomer of butenedioic acid, with Maleic Acid listed as its stereoisomer.
This structural difference results in different physical properties, including differences in water solubility and melting behavior.
Although the two acids are chemically related and both can be used in chemical and resin production, a formulation designed for one should not automatically be assumed to accept the other as a direct substitute. The appropriate material depends on the formulation, processing conditions, and required product characteristics.
Purchasing Fumaric Acid for Industrial Use
For industrial buyers, the right Fumaric Acid product depends on the intended application rather than the chemical name alone.
Before purchasing, buyers should confirm:
• Required assay or purity
• Powder or granular form
• Particle size, where relevant to the application
• Intended use
• Packaging requirements
• Order quantity
• Product documentation
• Storage and handling requirements
For food-related applications, buyers should also confirm that the supplied specification and documentation meet their applicable requirements before placing an order.
Fumaric Acid Supply from China
When sourcing Fumaric Acid from China, buyers should provide the supplier with their intended application and required specification as early as possible.
This is particularly important for recurring orders, where consistent product characteristics, suitable packaging, documentation, and shipment arrangements can affect production planning.
Snowwhite Chemical Co., LTD. supplies Fumaric Acid for customers in food-related, resin, and other chemical applications.
For buyers looking for a Fumaric Acid supplier in China, Snowwhite Chemical can provide product information and current specification, packaging, and shipment details for evaluation.
Contact Snowwhite Chemical to discuss your Fumaric Acid requirements and request an export quotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Fumaric Acid used in dry food formulations?
Fumaric Acid provides acidity while having relatively low water solubility, making its dissolution behavior relevant to selected dry and powdered formulations.
Can Fumaric Acid directly replace Maleic Acid?
Not necessarily. Although they have the same molecular formula, their different cis and trans configurations give them different physical properties. Substitution should therefore be evaluated according to the specific formulation and process.
What should buyers confirm when sourcing Fumaric Acid from China?
Buyers should confirm the required assay, physical form, application, packaging, quantity, documentation, and shipment requirements with the supplier before placing an order.
Contact Us
Contact SNOWHITE CHEMICAL CO., LTD now to get COA, free samples and the latest quotation.
Email: shirley@snowhitechem.com
Phone: +86-25-56215758
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