Chemical products
  • L-Tyrosine CAS 60-18-4

L-Tyrosine CAS 60-18-4

L-Tyrosine CAS 60-18-4 is a non-essential amino acid chemically defined as (S)-2-amino-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic acid, functioning primarily as a critical precursor for the biosynthesis of catecholamines and thyroid hormones in biological systems. Also known as L-4-Hydroxyphenylalanine, this crystalline solid is utilized to formulate specialized parenteral nutrition solutions and serves as a starting material in the synthesis of pharmaceutical actives and melanin-related polymers. We provide professional access to this material with competitive factory pricing and the ability to meet customized specifications for various manufacturing requirements. Our commitment to technical transparency ensures that every shipment is accompanied by comprehensive MSDS, TDS, COA documentation to support your quality assurance protocols, and we maintain capacity for consistent bulk supply to facilitate large-scale industrial operations.

  • CAS: 60-18-4
  • Synonyms: (S)-Tyrosine, L-4-Hydroxyphenylalanine, (S)-alpha-Amino-4-hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid, 3-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)-L-alanine, L-beta-(p-Hydroxyphenyl)alanine
  • Einecs: 200-460-4
  • Molecular Formula: C9H11NO3
  • Grade: Food/Pharma Grade
  • Package: 25kg/bag (Plastic woven bag with PE liner) or 500kg/1000kg Jumbo Bag.
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Product Description

Physical & Chemical Properties

L-Tyrosine is an aromatic amino acid. It appears as fine, white silk-like crystals or crystalline powder.

PropertySpecification / Description
Product NameL-Tyrosine
CAS Number60-18-4
Molecular FormulaC9H11NO3
Molecular Weight181.19 g/mol
AppearanceWhite to off-white crystalline powder
Assay98.5% – 101.5% (Dry Basis)
SolubilityVery slightly soluble in water; Soluble in dilute mineral acids and alkaline solutions
pH5.66 (Isoelectric point)
Loss on Drying≤ 0.30%
Production StandardUSP / EP / AJI / FCC

Key Application Fields

1. Nootropics and Cognitive Health

This is the fastest-growing sector for L-Tyrosine. It is used to support mental alertness and working memory, particularly under stressful conditions (cold, fatigue, sleep deprivation). It replenishes catecholamine neurotransmitters that get depleted during stress.

2. Sports Nutrition (Pre-Workout)

Unlike BCAAs which target muscle tissue, L-Tyrosine is added to pre-workout formulas for the brain. It helps athletes maintain “laser focus” and motivation during intense training sessions, preventing the feeling of mental crash.

3. Cosmetics and Personal Care

L-Tyrosine is a precursor to melanin (the pigment in skin). It is often used in:

  • Tanning Accelerators: To help speed up the natural tanning process.
  • Hair Care: To protect hair integrity and color.

4. Pharmaceutical Intermediates

It serves as a starting material for the synthesis of various pharmaceutical drugs, including those for thyroid disorders and Parkinson’s disease treatments.

Safety and Precautionary Measures

While L-Tyrosine is a dietary ingredient, handling the bulk raw material requires care.

  • Dust Hazard: As a fine powder, it can create dust. Ensure adequate ventilation in the weighing and blending areas to prevent dust accumulation.
  • Respiratory Protection: Inhalation of dust may cause irritation to the respiratory tract. Workers should wear N95 dust masks.
  • Contraindications (Medical): While safe for handling, formulators should be aware that L-Tyrosine can interact with MAOI inhibitors (a class of antidepressants) and thyroid medication.
  • Skin/Eye Contact: Standard safety goggles and gloves should be worn. If contact occurs, flush with water.

Storage and Handling Conditions

L-Tyrosine is relatively stable compared to some other amino acids, but it is sensitive to light.

  1. Light Protection: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or strong artificial light can cause the powder to discolor (turning slightly yellow). It must be stored in opaque containers or dark warehouses.
  2. Moisture: Keep in a dry environment. Although it is not highly hygroscopic, moisture can promote microbial growth.
  3. Packaging: Standard export packaging is typically 25kg fiber drums with double polyethylene liners. Drums are preferred over bags to protect the crystal structure and prevent light exposure.
  4. Temperature: Store at room temperature (below 25°C/77°F).

FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain

  • Q:

    What is L-Tyrosine CAS 60-18-4?

    A: L-Tyrosine CAS 60-18-4 is an aromatic amino acid with the molecular formula C9H11NO3, molecular weight about 181.19 g/mol, and EINECS 200-460-4. It is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder and is also known as L-4-hydroxyphenylalanine or 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-L-alanine.
  • Q:

    Why is L-Tyrosine used in nootropic and cognitive-health supplements?

    A: L-Tyrosine is a precursor for catecholamine neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. In nootropic formulas it is used to support mental alertness, working memory, and cognitive performance under stress, fatigue, or demanding conditions.
  • Q:

    How is L-Tyrosine used in sports nutrition and pre-workout products?

    A: In sports nutrition, L-Tyrosine is added to support focus, motivation, and mental drive during intense training. Unlike amino acids aimed mainly at muscle tissue, it is used for brain-facing benefits and to help maintain cognitive performance during prolonged exercise.
  • Q:

    What are the typical food/pharma-grade specifications for L-Tyrosine?

    A: Typical specifications include a white to off-white crystalline powder, assay of 98.5-101.5% on a dry basis, loss on drying at or below 0.30%, and isoelectric point around 5.66. It is usually tested against USP, EP, AJI, or FCC standards depending on the intended market.
  • Q:

    Why is L-Tyrosine solubility an important formulation consideration?

    A: L-Tyrosine is very slightly soluble in water, roughly 0.45 g/L at 25 C, but dissolves in dilute mineral acids or alkaline solutions. This makes it more practical in capsules, tablets, powders, or pH-adjusted systems than in high-concentration neutral liquid beverages.
  • Q:

    Can L-Tyrosine be used in cosmetics and personal care?

    A: Yes, L-Tyrosine is used in cosmetics and personal care formulations where amino-acid-based ingredients support skin or hair product concepts. The grade, purity, and microbial quality should be matched to the cosmetic application and regional requirements.

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