Technical-grade salicylic acid

Properties of salicylic acid

Salicylic acid (ortho-hydroxybenzoic acid) occurs as a white, crystalline powder or in the form of white to colorless crystalline needles and has a sweet-sour taste. It is poorly soluble in cold water, significantly more soluble in hot water, and slightly soluble in ethanol (96%). Chemically, salicylic acid belongs to both the phenols and the carboxylic acids. It occurs naturally as a derivative in numerous plants and has antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, as well as analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Uses of Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is the primary starting material for the production of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). When used topically, it serves as an anti-rheumatic agent in bath additives, ointments, and creams.

In the cosmetics and perfume industry, salicylic acid is used as a fragrance and as a UV filter in sunscreens.

Salicylic acid serves as a starting material for dyes and fragrances. It forms esters with organic acids, acting as an alcohol in the reaction. Bromination with elemental bromine in glacial acetic acid produces an acid whose salt can be used as a fungicide and bactericide.

In addition, salicylic acid is used as a flux in soft soldering.