Pidolic Acid, known in scientific circles as pyroglutamic acid or 5-oxoproline, is a naturally-occurring amino acid derivative known for its diverse roles in chemical and biological applications. The molecular structure consists of a pyrrolidone ring, giving it unique properties compared to standard amino acids. Whether appearing as colorless crystals, white powder, or in pearl and flake forms, Pidolic Acid stands out through its broad utility in pharmaceuticals, nutrition, cosmetics, and industrial chemistry. Each sample of this material presents with a molecular formula of C5H7NO3 and a molecular weight of 129.11 g/mol, characteristics that help determine its suitability for various processes and products.
Pidolic Acid features a five-membered lactam ring structure, making it less reactive than other amino acids but ideal for stable formulations. The melting point generally falls between 150°C and 155°C, showing strong thermal stability, which is particularly important for high-temperature production processes. With a density of roughly 1.5 g/cm³, the substance ranks among the denser amino acid derivatives. Pidolic Acid displays good solubility in water, forming clear solutions when dissolved, which supports its widespread use in both liquid and solid product manufacturing. In terms of appearance, samples typically arrive as a solid in powder, crystal, flakes, or as free-flowing pearls—each form supports ease of handling in industrial and laboratory settings. The chemical’s pKa value hovers near 2.3, allowing precise adjustments of acidity in specialized applications.
Manufacturers produce Pidolic Acid in various grades, targeting cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial uses. Typical specifications include purity levels above 98%, with residual moisture and specific contaminants strictly limited to comply with health and safety regulations. The product rarely contains significant impurities due to robust purification protocols. Each batch includes a certificate of analysis, providing assurance of compliance with tight quality standards. Industrial clients and researchers can choose from food-grade, pharmaceutical-grade, or technical-grade material, provided with detailed spec sheets outlining key data like melting point, specific rotation, heavy metal content, and loss on drying. Custom particle size options—including ultra-fine powders and larger granules—make this compound adaptable to automated feeds or manual handling systems.
From years working around chemicals, safety data stays front-of-mind. Pidolic Acid maintains a generally low hazard profile compared to other amide-based organics. People working with it won't find strong odorous fumes or aggressive skin reactions in normal handling, but following universal chemical hygiene shines as best practice. Gloves, eye protection, and dust masks should make up part of anyone’s standard kit. Spill response often includes sweeping up solid material for proper containerization and disposal rather than water flushes, since the compound dissolves readily and could complicate effluent management. Safety sheets classify it as a relatively safe substance, though ingestion and inhalation should always be avoided. Fire risk rates low due to the high melting point and stability, but storage away from oxidizers and moisture always helps prevent material degradation.
Trade and customs teams identify Pidolic Acid under the HS Code 292249, which covers other cyclic amides and their derivatives. This classification simplifies cross-border logistics, supporting transparency in supply chains. Regulatory compliance, particularly for food and pharma uses, extends to heavy metal testing, microbial limits, and detailed batch traceability. Exporters must provide documentation verifying purity, safety, and intended use. Buyers across regions require explicit confirmation that the material meets international standards such as those from the USP, EP, or GB regulations, depending on end-use sector and market destination. Staying current with changes in customs definitions and shipping labels assists in avoiding seizure or delays at ports.
Experiences in product development show Pidolic Acid brings value as both raw material and active ingredient. Formulators use it for its role in boosting skin hydration within personal care and cosmetics, leveraging its water solubility and mild acidity to improve skin feel and moisture retention. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it often acts as an intermediate for creating medicines and supplements tied to cognitive health or electrolyte balance. Food scientists turn to it as a flavor enhancer or acidity regulator. Producers rely on well-vetted raw material sources, typically using synthetic or fermentation processes to produce pure batches without animal-derived components—a crucial factor for halal, kosher, and vegan label claims. Constant scrutiny from auditors and ongoing material quality checks assure consistency from batch to batch. Direct sourcing from certified vendors not only manages quality but streamlines inventory planning, which is especially important when scale-up or just-in-time demand spikes occur.
