Introduction

aspartic acid.

(asparaginic acid; asparagic acid; aminosuccinic acid).
COOHCH2CH(NH2)COOH.

A naturally occurring nonessential amino acid. The common form is L(+)-aspartic acid.

Uses and Application: Biological and clinical studies, preparation of culture media, organic intermediate, ingredient of aspartame, detergents, fungicides, germicides, metal complexation. Available commercially as DL(±)-, L(+)-, and DL-aspartic acid.

Derivation: Hydrolysis of asparagine, reaction of ammonia with diethyl fumarate.

Specification

General Details

Properties: Colorless crystals. Soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol and ether. Optically active. DL-aspartic acid. Mp 278–280C (decomposes), d 1.663 (12/12C). L(+)-aspartic acid. Mp 251C. D(±)-aspartic acid. Mp 269–271C (decomposes), d 1.6613.

Source: Young sugar cane, sugar beet molasses.

Safety Information

General

Synonyms: aspartic acid, 2-aminobutanedioic acid, 2-aminosuccinic acid, (S)-(+)-aspartic acid, asp, sparaginic acid
Molecular formula: C4H7NO4
CAS No: 56-84-8
EINECS No: 200-291-6

Physical data

Appearance: white crystalline powder
Melting point: > 300 C (decomposes)
Boiling point:
Vapour density:
Vapour pressure:
Density (g cm-3):
Flash point:
Explosion limits:
Autoignition temperature:
Water solubility: slight

Stability

Stable. Combustible. Incompatible with strong oxidising agents.

Toxicology

Possible mutagen. Toxicology not fully investigated.

Risk phrases

R40.

Transport information

Non-hazardous for air, sea and road freight.

Personal protection

Safety glasses. Do not breathe dust.