Propionic acid

Propionic Acid

Propionic acid (/prəˈpiː.ənɪk ˈæsɪd/), also known as propanoic acid, is a naturally occurring carboxylic acid with chemical formula CH3CH2COOH. It is a clear liquid with a pungent odor and is produced industrially, primarily for use in food preservation and manufacturing of various propionates.

Etymology

The name "propionic" comes from the Greek words "pro" and "pion" which mean "first" and "fat" respectively. This is because propionic acid was first discovered in 1844 by Johann Gottlieb, who isolated it from fats during the process of saponification.

Production

Propionic acid is produced naturally through the fermentation of sugars and starches by the bacteria Propionibacterium. Industrially, it is produced by the hydrocarboxylation of ethylene using nickel carbonyl as the catalyst:

C2H4 + H2O + CO → CH3CH2COOH

Uses

Propionic acid is used as a preservative in baked goods and animal feed due to its ability to inhibit the growth of mold and some bacteria. It is also used in the production of various esters, salts, and other chemicals.

Related Terms

• Carboxylic acid
• Ester
• Fermentation
• Saponification
• Propionibacterium
• Preservative

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Propionic acid
• Wikipedia's article - Propionic acid

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