HomeProducts
Surfactants REACH

Arachidonic acid

CAS Number
506-32-1
EC Number
208-033-4
Chemical Formula
C20H32O2
Molecular Weight
304.5 g/mol
Industries:Pharmaceuticals & HealthcareFood & NutritionPersonal Care & Cosmetics

Description

Arachidonic acid (CAS 506-32-1 ), commonly abbreviated as ARA, is a long-chain polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid sourced primarily from animal and fungal lipid fractions. It functions as a bioactive lipid ingredient in nutritional, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations where specific fatty acid composition is a formulation requirement. In infant formula, ARA is added alongside DHA to meet regulatory standards for essential fatty acid content in early-life nutrition products for global distribution. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a reference standard and active ingredient in prostaglandin and eicosanoid research, as well as in lipid-based drug delivery systems. Sports nutrition and dietary supplement producers incorporate ARA to support muscle protein synthesis pathways in performance-focused products and specialized health supplements. In cosmetic formulations, it is used in skin barrier repair creams and serums where targeted fatty acid delivery to the stratum corneum is required for efficacy. Arachidonic acid is supplied as a liquid oil or in encapsulated powder form, with encapsulation commonly used to improve oxidative stability for food and supplement applications. It is available in food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications, with purity levels typically ranging from 40% to >98% depending on the intended use and industry. Contact us for supply of Arachidonic acid Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

cis-Delta(5,8,11,14)-eicosatetraenoic acid | cis-D5,8,11,14-Eicosatetraenoic acid | cis-D5,8,11,14-Eicosatetraenoate | C20:4(n-6) | all-cis-5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid | All-cis-5,8,11,14-Eicosatetraenoate | 5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z-Eicosatetraenoic acid | 5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z-Eicosatetraenoate | ARA

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point-49.5 °C
Boiling Point170 °C
Density0.9247 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point>230 °F
Appearanceliquid
Colorcolorless to light yellow
Formoil
Water SolubilityPRACTICALLY INSOLUBLE
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.4872(lit.)
Log P6.99

Safety & Handling

Warning
GHS07· Irritant

Hazard Statements

H302Harmful if swallowed
H312Harmful in contact with skin
H315Causes skin irritation
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H332Harmful if inhaled
H335May cause respiratory irritation

Precautionary Statements

P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P330Rinse mouth.
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29161900
UN Number1170
Packing GroupII
Storage Class10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany)3