Adipic acid is a straight-chain dicarboxylic acid widely used as an industrial intermediate in polymer, plasticizer, and chemical manufacturing.
Contact The Chemical Company for current packaging options, lead times, supply chain updates, and our chemical supply and distribution solutions.
Adipic acid is an organic compound with the formula (CH₂)₄(COOH)₂. It is a white, crystalline powder that is slightly soluble in water and soluble in alcohol and acetone. From an industrial perspective, adipic acid is the most important dicarboxylic acid, with the majority of global production dedicated to nylon manufacturing.
Nearly all commercial adipic acid is produced from cyclohexane through oxidation processes. Approximately 90 percent of adipic acid produced is used as a precursor for nylon 66, which is further processed into fibers for applications such as carpeting, automobile tire cord, and clothing. Adipic acid is also used in the manufacture of plasticizers, lubricant components, and a variety of specialty chemical intermediates.
Historically, adipic acid was prepared by oxidizing fats. Modern industrial production commonly involves oxidation of a cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol mixture, often referred to as “KA oil,” using nitric acid in a multistep pathway. Alternative production methods include carbonylation of butadiene and green chemistry approaches that utilize hydrogen peroxide oxidation, where water is the primary by-product.
Food-grade adipic acid is used as a gelling aid, acidulant, and leavening and buffering agent in food applications.
For customers requiring a branded, high-purity grade, The Chemical Company also supplies ADI-PURE® Adipic Acid by Invista, designed for applications where consistent purity and uniformity are critical.
"*" indicates required fields
