What is Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acid?

Cyclohexanecarboxylic acid is an organic compound with the chemical formula C7H12O2. It is the carboxylic acid derivative of cyclohexane, also known by several other names including cyclohexylcarboxylic acid, hexahydrobenzoic acid, and carboxycyclohexane. This versatile chemical appears as a colorless oil that crystallizes near room temperature.

The compound is prepared through the hydrogenation of benzoic acid, a process that reduces the aromatic ring to create the saturated cyclohexane structure. In rat models, cyclohexanecarboxylic acid has demonstrated anti-convulsant activity similar to valproic acid, making it a compound of interest in pharmaceutical research.

What Are the Benefits?

Pharmaceutical Applications

Cyclohexanecarboxylic acid serves as a valuable precursor in pharmaceutical synthesis. Its benefits in this sector include:

• Antiviral Agent Development: The compound is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of several antiviral medications
• Analgesic Production: It contributes to the creation of effective pain-relieving medications
• Drug Bioavailability: Pharmaceutical formulations incorporating this acid can improve drug bioavailability

Industrial Benefits

In industrial applications, cyclohexanecarboxylic acid offers several advantages:

• Polimer gyártás: Acts as a key building block in synthesizing various polymers, enhancing their properties for plastics and coatings applications
• Nylon-6 Precursor: This compound is a critical starting material for nylon-6 manufacturing, one of the most widely used synthetic polymers
• Surfactant Production: Essential in producing surfactants that improve the effectiveness of detergents and cleaning agents

Research Applications

• Analytical Standard: Used as a reference material for determining analytes in wine, alcoholic beverages, edible salts, high-salinity foods, and ethanolic extracts of Centella asiatica
• Metabolism Studies: Serves as a metabolite in studies of benzoic acid metabolism in microorganisms

What Are the Uses?

1. Polymer and Plastic Industry

Cyclohexanecarboxylic acid is a fundamental building block in the polymer industry. Its primary industrial use is as a precursor to nylon-6, a synthetic polymer extensively used in textiles, automotive parts, and various consumer products. The chemical properties of cyclohexanecarboxylic acid make it ideal for enhancing polymer characteristics in plastic and coating applications.

2. Pharmaceutical Industry

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, this compound plays multiple roles:

• Synthesis of antiviral agents
• Production of analgesic medications
• Development of various pharmaceutical intermediates
• Research into anti-convulsant compounds

3. Flavor and Fragrance Industry

The chemical is incorporated into flavor and fragrance formulations, providing desirable scent profiles in consumer products. Its stable chemical structure makes it suitable for various formulations in this industry.

4. Surfactant and Detergent Industry

Cyclohexanecarboxylic acid is essential in producing surfactants—vital components in detergents and cleaning agents. These surfactants improve the ability to remove dirt and grease, making everyday cleaning products more effective.

5. Agricultural Chemicals

The compound serves as an intermediate in the production of agrochemicals, contributing to the development of various agricultural products.

Safety and Side Effects

Health Hazards

When handling cyclohexanecarboxylic acid, it is important to be aware of potential health effects:

• Akut toxicitás: Classified as Acute Toxicity Category 4 for oral exposure
• Respiratory Irritation: May cause respiratory irritation if inhaled
• Skin Contact: Can cause skin irritation
• Eye Contact: May cause serious eye irritation

Biztonsági óvintézkedések

When working with cyclohexanecarboxylic acid:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE including gloves, safety goggles, and lab coats
2. Ventilation: Work in well-ventilated areas or use fume hoods
3. Tárolás: Store in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials
4. Handling: Avoid breathing vapors or mist
5. Eltávolítás: Dispose of according to local environmental regulations

First Aid Measures

• Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
• Skin Contact: Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. Seek medical attention if irritation develops.
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
• Ingestion: Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Seek medical attention if unwell.

Chemical Specifications

CAS-szám	98-89-5
Molekuláris képlet	C7H12O2
Molekulatömeg	128.17 g/mol
Megjelenés	Colorless oil, crystallizes near room temperature
Forráspont	232-233°C
Sűrűség	1.01 g/cm³
Solubility in Water	0.201 g/100g water at 15°C

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cyclohexanecarboxylic acid used for?

Cyclohexanecarboxylic acid is used in various industries including pharmaceutical manufacturing (as a precursor for antiviral drugs and analgesics), polymer production (especially nylon-6), flavor and fragrance formulations, and surfactant production.

Is cyclohexanecarboxylic acid dangerous?

The compound has potential health hazards including acute toxicity (Category 4), respiratory irritation, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Proper safety precautions should always be followed when handling this chemical.

How is cyclohexanecarboxylic acid produced?

It is primarily produced through the hydrogenation of benzoic acid, which reduces the aromatic ring to create the saturated cyclohexane structure.

What is the molecular formula of cyclohexanecarboxylic acid?

The molecular formula is C7H12O2, with a molecular weight of 128.17 g/mol.

Can cyclohexanecarboxylic acid be used in food applications?

While it is used as an analytical standard for food testing, direct food applications require specific regulatory approvals. Consult relevant food safety authorities for specific use cases.

Why Choose Our Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acid?

• High Purity: Our cyclohexanecarboxylic acid meets industry standards for purity and quality
• Competitive Pricing: We offer competitive rates for bulk orders
• Reliable Supply: Consistent availability for your production needs
• Technical Support: Our team provides technical assistance and product documentation
• Global Shipping: Efficient delivery to customers worldwide

Related Products

• Benzoic Acid (65-85-0) – The aromatic precursor to cyclohexanecarboxylic acid
• Cyclohexanecarboxaldehyde (2043-61-0) – Related cyclohexane derivative
• Cyclohexene Methanol (1679-51-2) – Another cyclohexane compound
• Cyclopentylpropionyl Chloride (104-97-2) – Related acyl chloride

---

This article is for informational purposes only. For specific applications, please consult with our technical team.