D-Tartaric Acid CAS 147-71-7

Introduction to D-Tartaric Acid

D-Tartaric Acid is the dextrorotatory enantiomer of tartaric acid, with two asymmetric carbon atoms in R,R configuration. It appears as colorless transparent crystals or white crystalline powder at room temperature, with a pronounced acidic taste. It dissolves readily in water and methanol, and shows partial solubility in ethanol and ether. The compound occurs naturally in select fruits, and industrial production relies primarily on chiral resolution or microbial fermentation routes.

The molecule carries two carboxylic acid groups and two hydroxyl groups along a four-carbon backbone. It forms stable salts and chelate complexes with a wide range of metal ions. Its well-defined chiral centers make it a widely used starting material and resolving agent across asymmetric synthesis workflows.

Chemical & Physical Properties

Property	Value
Molecular Formula	C4H6O6
Molecular Weight	150.09 g/mol
Melting Point	168 – 170 °C
Density	1.76 g/cm³
Solubility in Water	~139 g/100 mL at 20 °C
Specific Rotation	+12.0° to +12.8° (c=20, H2O)
Loss on Drying	0.5% max
Assay	99.5% min

Applications

Chiral resolving agent and API intermediate: Used to resolve racemic amine and alcohol compounds during pharmaceutical intermediate production. It forms diastereomeric salts with target enantiomers, enabling clean separation via fractional crystallization.

Food and beverage acidity regulator: Added to soft drinks, confectionery and gelatin products to adjust pH and enhance flavor profile. It also acts as an antioxidant synergist to extend finished product shelf life.

Cosmetic and personal care ingredient: Incorporated into skin care formulations as a pH adjuster and buffering agent. Its chelating property also helps stabilize formulations against metal-ion induced degradation.

Electroplating and surface treatment: Serves as a complexing agent in electroplating baths to improve metal deposition uniformity and final surface finish quality.

Storage & Safety Precautions

Store in tightly sealed polyethylene-lined bags or fiber drums in a cool, dry and ventilated warehouse. Keep away from strong oxidizing agents and alkalis. Protect from ambient moisture, as the material absorbs water easily under high humidity conditions.
Wear safety goggles and dust-resistant gloves during bulk handling. Avoid inhalation of dust and prolonged skin contact. The compound may cause mild irritation to the respiratory tract and eye mucosa with excessive exposure.
Use stainless steel, glass or plastic equipment for solution preparation. Keep bulk storage areas equipped with appropriate dust collection and ventilation systems.

D-Tartaric Acid FAQ

Q: What function does D-Tartaric Acid serve in pharmaceutical intermediate production?

A: D-Tartaric Acid acts as a chiral resolving agent for racemic amines and alcohols. It forms diastereomeric salts with target enantiomers, allowing clean separation via fractional crystallization and supporting production of single-enantiomer API intermediates.

Q: Can D-Tartaric Acid be used in food and beverage formulations?

A: Yes. D-Tartaric Acid works as an acidity regulator and flavor enhancer in beverages, confectionery and gelatin products. It also functions as an antioxidant synergist to slow oxidative degradation and extend finished product shelf life.

Q: What storage rules apply to industrial grade D-Tartaric Acid?

A: Store D-Tartaric Acid in sealed, moisture-proof containers in a cool dry warehouse away from strong bases and oxidizers. Keep packaging tightly closed to prevent water uptake and caking during extended inventory periods.