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Citric Acid Anhydrous - CAS 77-92-9

Citric Acid Anhydrous (TTCA) - Properties, Applications, and Safety

Citric acid anhydrous (CAS 77-92-9) is the water-free form of citric acid (2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid), a weak organic acid with the molecular formula C₆H₈O₇ and a molecular weight of 192.12 g/mol. It is produced by crystallization from hot aqueous solutions under controlled industrial conditions, yielding a white to off-white crystalline powder with low residual moisture content. TTCA Co., Ltd., one of the world's leading citric acid producers, manufactures this anhydrous grade to high purity specifications (≥99.5%).

Physicochemical Properties

  • Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder

  • Odor: Odorless

  • Melting Point: 153–155°C (with decomposition)

  • Density: Approximately 1.665 g/cm³

  • Solubility in Water: High; 590–750 g/L at 20°C; 1330 g/L at 20°C for some grades

  • Solubility in Ethanol: Freely soluble

  • Flash Point: 345°C

  • pH (1% solution): Approximately 2.2

  • Hygroscopicity: Absorbs moisture above 75% relative humidity

Applications

Food and Beverage Industry: Citric acid anhydrous is the most widely used organic acidulant in food processing, serving as a pH regulator, flavor enhancer, preservative, and antioxidant synergist. It prevents oxidation in beverages, jams, and canned goods, and acts as a dough conditioner in baked products. Its low moisture content ensures precise dosing and stability in dry blends.

Pharmaceuticals: Used as a buffer in oral and topical formulations, an excipient in effervescent tablets, and a stabilizer in injectable preparations. It also acts as a chelating agent to bind metal ions that could otherwise degrade active ingredients.

Cosmetics and Personal Care: Functions as a pH adjuster, chelating agent, and mild exfoliant in creams, lotions, shampoos, and skincare formulations.

Household and Industrial Cleaning: A key ingredient in descaling agents, dishwashing detergents, and laundry products, where it sequesters hardness ions (calcium, magnesium) to improve cleaning efficiency and prevent scale formation.

Safety and Regulatory Status

Citric acid anhydrous is affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. FDA under 21 CFR 184.1033 and approved as a food additive under 21 CFR 172.755 and 173.280. It is non-toxic, non-flammable, and biodegradable. However, in concentrated powder form, it may cause mild irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract; appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, dust mask) is recommended when handling large quantities.

Storage and Handling

Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and strong oxidizing agents. The anhydrous form is hygroscopic and should be kept below 50% relative humidity to prevent caking and moisture absorption. Shelf life is typically 24–36 months under recommended storage conditions.

Conclusion

Citric acid anhydrous is a versatile, stable, and safe organic acid with a wide range of applications across the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and cleaning industries. Its low moisture content, high purity, and excellent chelating and buffering properties make it an essential ingredient in countless formulations, from beverages and effervescent tablets to descaling agents and skincare products.

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