HomeProducts

4-hydroxybenzoic acid

CAS Number
99-96-7
EC Number
202-804-9
Chemical Formula
C7H6O3
Molecular Weight
138.12 g/mol

Description

4-Hydroxybenzoic acid (CAS 99-96-7 ), also known as p-salicylic acid and abbreviated as 4-HBA, is the primary precursor in the synthesis of paraben preservatives used across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing. It functions as an antimicrobial agent and antioxidant stabilizer in its own right, and as a key intermediate for producing methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl paraben esters for various industrial applications. In cosmetics and personal care, 4-HBA is used directly as a preservative and UV stabilizer in creams, lotions, and sunscreen formulations. Pharmaceutical manufacturers rely on it as a synthetic building block. It is used for paraben-based excipients and as a preservative in topical and oral dosage forms. Food processors source it under FEMA 3986 for flavoring and preservation applications in packaged goods. It also appears in industrial formulations where oxidative stability is required, such as adhesives and polymer systems. 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder for easy handling. Standard grades include technical, food-grade, and pharmaceutical-grade material meeting USP , BP , and Ph. Eur. specifications. This ensures high purity and compliance for sensitive manufacturing processes. Packaging is available in bulk bags and smaller quantities to suit both large-scale production and laboratory or pilot-scale sourcing requirements. We provide consistent quality for all global supply chains. Contact us for supply of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

Paraben-acid | p-salicylic acid | p-Salicylate | P-Hydroxybenzoic Acid | p-Hydroxybenzoate | p-Carboxyphenol | 4-Hydroxy-benzoesaeure | 4-Hydroxy-benzoate | 4-HBA

Key Technical Features

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

Physical Properties

Melting Point214.5 °C
Boiling Point>400 °C
Density1.46 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C
Flash Point199 °C
AppearanceWhite to ivory crystalline powder
ColorWhite to ivory
Odorat 100.00 %. phenolic nutty
FormCrystalline Powder
Water Solubility5 g/L (20 ºC)
Vapor Pressure0Pa at 20℃
Refractive Index1.4600 (estimate)
pH3.3 (1g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P0.878 at 22℃

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS05· CorrosiveGHS07· Irritant

Hazard Statements

H315Causes skin irritation
H318Causes serious eye damage
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H335May cause respiratory irritation

Precautionary Statements

P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
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).
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
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.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29182930
WGK (Germany)1