• Methylparaben CAS 99-76-3
  • Methylparaben CAS 99-76-3

Methylparaben CAS 99-76-3

Methylparaben (CAS 99-76-3), chemically identified as methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent functioning as a critical preservative in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. This crystalline ester, also technically referred to as methyl p-hydroxybenzoate or 4-hydroxybenzoic acid methyl ester, serves to inhibit the growth of molds, yeasts, and bacteria in aqueous systems, ensuring the shelf-life stability of creams, lotions, and surfactant products. We provide bulk supply of this preservative ingredient with competitive factory pricing to support high-volume manufacturing needs. Our compliance framework ensures rigorous purity standards, making MSDS, TDS, COA available alongside customized specifications to meet pharmacopeial or cosmetic grade requirements.

  • CAS: 99-76-3
  • Synonyms: methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, methyl p-hydroxybenzoate, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid methyl ester, p-carbomethoxyphenol, methyl parahydroxybenzoate
  • Einecs: 202-785-7
  • Molecular Formula: C8H8O3
  • Grade: Pharmaceutical / Cosmetic / Food Grade
  • Package: 25 kg fiber drum or carton with inner PE bag; other packaging available on request
Request a quote
Share:

Product Description

Methylparaben MP (Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate) is a widely used, broad-spectrum preservative for pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and food. It effectively inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeast, and molds, helping manufacturers stabilize formulations and extend product shelf life.

📧 Email: info@industrochem.com – Contact our technical sales team for the latest factory price, COA, MSDS and sample support.

Physicochemical Properties

ItemSpecification / Typical Value
Chemical NameMethylparaben; Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate
CAS99-76-3
Einecs / EC No.202-785-7
Molecular FormulaC₈H₈O₃
Molecular Weight152.15 g/mol (approx.)
AppearanceWhite or almost white crystalline powder / crystals
OdorOdorless or faint characteristic odor, slightly burning taste
Assay (on dry basis)99.0–100.5% Methylparaben
Melting Point125–128 °C
Boiling Point (decomp.)~270–280 °C (decomposes before boiling)
Density / Specific gravity~1.36–1.38 g/cm³ at 20–25 °C
pH (saturated aq. solution)Approx. 5.7–5.8 at 20–25 °C
Solubility in water (25 °C)Slightly soluble; about 0.25–0.30% w/w (≈1 g in 300–400 mL water)
Solubility in ethanolFreely soluble; about 1 g in ~2.5 mL ethanol
Solubility in propylene glycolAbout 1 g in ~4 mL propylene glycol
Solubility in oils & fatsSoluble in many fixed oils and cosmetic oils
Log Pow (octanol/water)~1.9–2.0 at 20 °C
pKa (phenolic OH)~8.1–8.4 (20 °C in water)
StabilityStable under normal conditions; sensitive to strong oxidizers and strong bases
Shelf LifeTypically 24 months in original unopened package

Applications

1. Cosmetics & Personal Care

  • Used as a primary preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, shower gels, wet wipes and color cosmetics.
  • Often combined with other parabens or phenoxyethanol to broaden antimicrobial spectrum and improve performance at lower dosages.

2. Pharmaceuticals

  • Preservative for oral liquids (syrups, suspensions), topical preparations (ointments, gels, creams) and some ophthalmic/otic preparations when used in approved combinations.
  • Helps maintain microbiological stability during shelf life and after opening, especially in multi-dose containers.

3. Food & Beverage

  • Used as an antimicrobial preservative (E218) in selected food categories according to local food additive regulations.
  • Effective against molds and yeasts in high-moisture food systems when used together with other preservatives or hurdle technologies.

4. Other Industrial Uses

  • Preservative for certain industrial emulsions, coatings and specialty chemical formulations where low-toxicity antimicrobial protection is required.

Storage Conditions

To ensure product quality over its shelf life, we recommend:

  • Store in tightly closed original containers, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.
  • Keep in a cool, dry and well-ventilated warehouse; recommended storage temperature is generally below 25 °C.
  • Avoid high temperature and high humidity environments that may cause caking or degradation.
  • Keep away from strong oxidizing agents and strong bases.

When stored as recommended and kept sealed, typical shelf life is 24 months from production date (exact shelf life can be specified on COA/label according to your factory standard).


Safety Precautions

  • Handling
    • Avoid generating or breathing dust; fine dust in air may form an explosive mixture with air.
    • Use in well-ventilated areas; local exhaust is recommended for powder handling.
    • Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    • Safety glasses or goggles.
    • Dust mask or suitable respirator if dust levels may be high.
    • Protective gloves (e.g. nitrile) and work clothing.
  • First Aid
    • Inhalation: Move to fresh air, keep warm and at rest; seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
    • Skin contact: Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing.
    • Eye contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; seek medical advice if irritation continues.
    • Ingestion: Rinse mouth and seek medical advice; do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel.
  • Fire & Explosion
    • Product itself is not highly flammable, but fine dust may pose a dust-explosion hazard. Avoid ignition sources, sparks and open flames in areas where dust is present.
  • Environmental
    • Avoid uncontrolled releases to the environment; follow local regulations for handling and disposal of waste and contaminated packaging.

FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain

  • Q:

    How is Methylparaben (CAS 99-76-3) chemically distinguished from Propylparaben?

    A: Methylparaben is the methyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid characterized by higher water solubility, whereas Propylparaben is the propyl ester variant with higher lipophilicity; they are frequently formulated together for synergistic preservation.
  • Q:

    What is the effective pH range for Methylparaben in industrial applications?

    A: Methylparaben is intended for use in formulations with a broad pH range, typically maintaining chemical stability and antimicrobial efficacy between pH 4.0 and 8.0.
Documents

Documents and Product Support

For product review and sourcing evaluation, supporting documents can be coordinated according to the product type, inquiry stage, and order requirements.

  • COA for batch-based quality reference
  • TDS for key physical and chemical information
  • SDS / MSDS for handling, storage, and safety reference
  • Packing information for sample, trial, and bulk orders
  • Technical communication based on application and specification requirements
Quotation

Information to Confirm Before Quotation

Clear sourcing information helps reduce specification mismatch and allows a more accurate quotation before sample or bulk order discussion.

  • Product name and CAS number
  • Application or intended end use
  • Required purity, grade, or specification
  • Sample quantity, trial order, or bulk demand
  • Preferred packing form or net weight
  • Destination country or port
  • Required documents or compliance expectations
Storage & Handling

Packaging, Storage, and Handling Notes

Packaging form, storage conditions, shelf life, and shipment arrangements should be confirmed according to the product characteristics, package size, and destination requirements.

Before order confirmation, buyers are advised to review the corresponding product documents and confirm whether any special storage, labeling, or handling requirements apply.

Supply Support

Sample, Bulk Order and Repeat Supply Support

Support can be arranged for sample discussion, bulk supply planning, packaging confirmation, and routine sourcing communication based on the actual product and order requirements.

For repeat-use formulations or long-term procurement plans, buyers may discuss specification consistency, packaging preferences, delivery expectations, and document coordination in advance.

Contact Form

Use our contact form to send us your questions, suggestions or comments. We will respond as soon as possible.