LACTIC ACID- ▸ Acidulant & pH control: acidity regulator and buffering agent in food and industrial systems
- ▸ PLA feedstock: monomer for polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastics
- ▸ Leather processing: tanning and dehairing agent
- ▸ Metal finishing: plating agent in metal-plating baths
- ▸ Textiles: solvent and mordant in dyeing and printing
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Request SDS →Lactic Acid (CAS 50-21-5) is a hydroxycarboxylic acid (2-hydroxypropanoic acid) supplied as a clear liquid. It is used as an acidulant and pH regulator, as a solvent in the production of foods, drugs, and dyes, and as the monomer for polylactic acid (PLA). Additional uses include leather tanning, metal plating, and textile dyeing and finishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lactic Acid [PURAC PF90] used for?
Lactic Acid (CAS 50-21-5) is a hydroxycarboxylic acid used as an acidulant and pH regulator, as a solvent in food, drug, and dye production, and as the monomer for polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastics. It is also used in leather tanning, metal plating, and textile dyeing and finishing.
What is lactic acid made from?
Industrial lactic acid is typically produced by microbial fermentation of carbohydrate feedstocks (such as sugars from corn or other plant sources), then purified. It is 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, formula C3H6O3, supplied here as a clear liquid (PF90 indicates a ~90% concentration grade).
Is lactic acid water soluble?
Yes. Lactic acid is fully miscible with water in all proportions and is supplied as an aqueous liquid concentrate. This solubility supports its use as an acidulant, pH buffer, and solvent in aqueous food and industrial systems.
Is lactic acid an acid?
Yes. Lactic acid is a weak hydroxycarboxylic (alpha-hydroxy) acid, 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, with one carboxyl group. It is used industrially as an acidulant and pH regulator and as a buffering agent.
How is bulk lactic acid shipped, and what is the UN number?
Lactic acid is assigned UN 3265 for transport and ships under the applicable DOT/IMDG requirements for corrosive liquids. RawSource supplies it in bulk drums, totes, and IBCs to manufacturers, with Certificate of Analysis and SDS on request. Request a bulk quote with your volume and packaging preference; we do not quote fixed prices without a current RFQ.