Dimethyl Dicarbonate (DMDC) E242 CAS 4525-33-1

Dimethyl Dicarbonate (DMDC, E242) – Beverage Preservative for Cold Sterilization

Basic Information

• Product Name: Dimethyl dicarbonate (DMDC)

• CAS Number: 4525-33-1

• Molecular Formula: C₄H₆O₅

• Molecular Weight: ~106.08 g/mol

• Purity: ≥99.8%

• Appearance: Colorless transparent liquid

• Odor: Pungent, vinegar- or ester-like

• Density: ~1.25 g/cm³ (at 20°C)

• Boiling Point: ~172°C (decomposes)

• Melting Point: ~-0.5°C

• Flash Point: ~59°C

• Solubility: Slowly hydrolyzes in water; soluble in organic solvents (esters, alcohols)

• Packaging: 5 kg or 25 kg bottles

• Quantity: 2400 kg available

Overview
Dimethyl dicarbonate (DMDC), also known as E242 in the food industry, is an organic compound used primarily as a preservative and cold sterilization agent in beverages. It effectively inhibits the growth of yeast, bacteria, and other microorganisms without affecting the taste or aroma of the final product. Its rapid hydrolysis in aqueous environments ensures minimal residual content, making it a safe and efficient alternative to thermal sterilization.

Key Characteristics

• Effective antimicrobial agent – controls spoilage microorganisms in a wide range of beverages.

• Flavor-neutral – does not impart taste or odor to treated products.

• Rapid hydrolysis – breaks down to trace amounts of methanol and carbon dioxide, leaving no harmful residues.

• Cold filling technology – enables sterilization without heat, preserving product quality and extending shelf life.

Applications

• Beverages: Added to soft drinks, wine, beer, and other beverages to suppress yeast and bacterial growth.

• Cold sterilization: Used in aseptic filling processes where heat treatment is undesirable.

• Food products: May be used as an auxiliary preservative where permitted by regulations.

Potential Impact

• Human health: Safe at regulated concentrations; considered non-toxic when used within recommended limits.

• Toxicity: At excessive doses, may cause mild irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and mucous membranes.

• Environmental: Rapidly hydrolyzes, does not accumulate in the environment.

Recommended Use
Typical dosages range from 100–250 mg/L of beverage, depending on the product type, pH, and target microorganism. Precise dosing is essential to ensure efficacy and safety. The product should be added with thorough mixing to achieve uniform distribution.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent hydrolysis and loss of activity.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, protective clothing) when handling.

• Avoid contact with skin and eyes; in case of contact, rinse thoroughly with water.

• Hydrolyzes in water to methanol and carbon dioxide; handle with care.

Packaging
Available in 5 kg or 25 kg bottles, or custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity, water content, and stability to ensure consistent performance.

Итог: Диметилдикарбонат (DMDC, E242) – консервант и средство холодной стерилизации для напитков (вина, пива, безалкогольных напитков). Эффективно подавляет микроорганизмы, не влияя на вкус, быстро гидролизуется. Бесцветная жидкость высокой чистоты (≥99,8%).