Propionic Acid

· A colorless liquid with a sharp, pungent odor similar to acetic acid, molecular weight of 74.08, boiling point of 141℃, and melting point of -21℃. Soluble in water, ethanol, ether, and chloroform, it is a weak organic acid with mild corrosiveness to metals and skin, and can irritate the respiratory tract when inhaled.

1. Commonly used as a food preservative to inhibit mold and bacterial growth

2. Serves as a raw material for calcium propionate and sodium propionate production

3. Applied in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and herbicides

4. Used to make plasticizers and solvents for organic chemical reactions

5. Utilized in the fragrance industry for producing propionate esters