DL-malic acid

DL-Malic acid is a white crystalline organic acid that is the racemic mixture of D- and L-malic acid isomers. It is naturally found in fruits and plays an important role in biochemical processes such as the citric acid cycle. It is widely used in laboratories and pharmaceuticals for its acidifying, chelating, and flavoring properties.

🏭⚗️ Production
DL-Malic acid is typically produced by chemical synthesis or fermentation processes. The synthetic route involves hydration of maleic anhydride, while fermentation uses microbial conversion of sugars. It is purified through crystallization for laboratory and pharmaceutical use.

🔬 Properties
The chemical formula is C₄H₆O₅ with a molar mass of 134.09 g/mol. It appears as a white crystalline powder, soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. It has two carboxyl groups making it a dicarboxylic acid, with pKa values around 3.4 and 5.1. It is stable under normal conditions but decomposes at high temperatures.

🧪 Applications
DL-Malic acid is used as a pH adjuster, acidulant, and chelating agent in pharmaceutical formulations. It improves taste in oral medications and is involved in topical products for skin pH regulation. In laboratories, it is used in buffer preparations and as a reagent in organic synthesis.

⚠️ Safety
DL-Malic acid is generally regarded as safe but can cause mild irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract upon direct contact or inhalation of dust. Appropriate protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn when handling. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from strong oxidizers and bases.