p-Methylbenzoic Acid (p-Toluic Acid) CAS 99-94-5

FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain

• Q:

  What is p-Methylbenzoic Acid used for?

  A: p-Methylbenzoic Acid, also called 4-Methylbenzoic Acid or p-Toluic Acid, is an aromatic carboxylic-acid intermediate. It is used in pharmaceuticals such as para-aminomethylbenzoic acid and p-tolunitrile, plus agrochemicals, dyes, pigments, photosensitive materials, polymer stabilizers and other organic synthesis routes.
• Q:

  Why must the para isomer be specified for Methylbenzoic Acid?

  A: The toluic acid isomers are not interchangeable. p-Methylbenzoic Acid is CAS 99-94-5, while m-toluic acid is CAS 99-04-7 and o-toluic acid is CAS 118-90-1. They differ in melting behavior, reactivity and downstream suitability, so the complete name, CAS and para-isomer requirement should be stated.
• Q:

  What should be specified when ordering p-Methylbenzoic Acid?

  A: Specify GC or HPLC assay, water, color and appearance, melting range, and limits for o-toluic acid, m-toluic acid, benzoic acid or other related impurities. Confirm the physical form, quantity, packaging and destination acceptance against the current product-specific specification.
• Q:

  What physical properties identify p-Methylbenzoic Acid?

  A: It is usually a white to pale-yellow crystalline solid or powder with a melting range around 177-182 degrees Celsius, commonly cited near 179-181 degrees Celsius, a boiling point around 274-275 degrees Celsius and a density near 1.06 g/cm3 at 20 degrees Celsius. Lot acceptance should use the current specification rather than literature values alone.
• Q:

  How should p-Methylbenzoic Acid be stored and handled?

  A: Store it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area in tightly closed containers, away from strong oxidizers, strong bases and incompatible materials. Minimize dust generation and use the current product-specific safety information for personal protection, spill handling and local disposal requirements.