Ketones & Aldehydes
Acetaldehyde
CAS 75-07-0 — Chemical Intermediate & Flavoring Agent
Acetaldehyde is a key chemical intermediate for acetic acid, pyridine, and polyol production, and a food-grade flavoring agent. Texas-Chem supplies industrial and food-grade acetaldehyde with proper hazmat handling and DOT-compliant packaging.
CAS Number
75-07-0
Boiling Point
20.2 °C
Flash Point
-38 °C — Extremely flammable
Pack Sizes
Drums · Totes
Structure
C₂H₄O — Acetaldehyde (Ethanal) — CAS 75-07-0
Safety & Regulatory
- NFPA Health
- 3 — Serious hazard
- NFPA Flammability
- 4 — Severe hazard
- NFPA Reactivity
- 2 — Unstable
- Flash Point
- -38 °C — Extremely flammable
- OSHA PEL
- 200 ppm TWA
- DOT Hazard Class
- 3 — Flammable Liquid — UN 1089 — PG I
Grades & Packaging
Available Grades
Pack Sizes
Also Known As
Physical & Chemical Properties
| CAS Number | 75-07-0 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂H₄O |
| Molecular Weight | 44.05 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear colorless liquid |
| Boiling Point | 20.2 °C (68.4 °F) |
| Flash Point | -38 °C (-36 °F) — Extremely flammable |
| Density | 0.788 g/cm³ at 15 °C |
| Vapor Pressure | 740 mmHg at 20 °C |
| Water Solubility | Miscible in all proportions |
| Odor | Pungent, fruity — apple-like |
| Purity | 99.5% minimum |
| Stabilizer | Hydroquinone (50–100 ppm) to prevent polymerization |
Industrial Applications
Acetic Acid & Acetic Anhydride Production
Acetaldehyde is oxidized to acetic acid and acetic anhydride, key intermediates in the production of vinyl acetate monomer, cellulose acetate, and other industrial chemicals.
Pyridine & Pyridine Derivatives
Acetaldehyde is used in the synthesis of pyridine and 2-methylpyridine (alpha-picoline) via the Chichibabin reaction, important intermediates in pharmaceutical and agrochemical manufacturing.
Polyol Production
Used in the production of pentaerythritol and trimethylolpropane via aldol condensation, key polyols for alkyd resin and polyurethane production.
Flavors & Fragrances
Food-grade acetaldehyde is used as a flavoring agent in food and beverage applications, contributing apple and fruity notes to beverages, dairy products, and confectionery.
Resin Production
Used in the production of acetal resins (polyvinyl acetal, polyvinyl butyral) for safety glass interlayers and coatings applications.
Pharmaceutical Synthesis
Used as a starting material in the synthesis of chloral hydrate, paraldehyde, and other pharmaceutical intermediates.
Why Source Acetaldehyde from Texas-Chem
- Industrial and food-grade acetaldehyde with DOT-compliant packaging
- Consistent quality with CoA on every lot
- Same-week delivery across Texas; nationwide LTL
- Technical support for chemical synthesis and flavor applications
- One rep from first call to final delivery
Acetaldehyde — Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main uses of acetaldehyde in chemical manufacturing?▾
Acetaldehyde is primarily used as a chemical intermediate for acetic acid (via oxidation), pyridine and pyridine derivatives (via Chichibabin reaction), and polyols (pentaerythritol, trimethylolpropane via aldol condensation). It is also used in the production of acetal resins (polyvinyl butyral for safety glass) and as a food-grade flavoring agent.
What special handling is required for acetaldehyde?▾
Acetaldehyde is an extremely flammable liquid (flash point -38 °C) and must be handled with strict fire prevention measures. It is also a suspected carcinogen (IARC Group 2B). Key handling requirements: store in a cool, well-ventilated area; use explosion-proof equipment; avoid ignition sources; use appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection, respiratory protection); and follow DOT regulations for transport (UN 1089, PG I).
Is food-grade acetaldehyde available?▾
Yes. Texas-Chem supplies food-grade acetaldehyde meeting FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) specifications for use as a flavoring agent in food and beverage applications. Food-grade acetaldehyde is listed as GRAS by the FDA and approved as food additive E1089 in the EU. Contact us for food-grade CoA and specification sheets.
How is acetaldehyde stabilized for storage and transport?▾
Acetaldehyde is stabilized with hydroquinone (50–100 ppm) to prevent polymerization to paraldehyde and metaldehyde. It must be stored in a cool location (below 20 °C) in tightly closed containers. Acetaldehyde has a boiling point of 20.2 °C and will vaporize at room temperature — containers must be kept cool and sealed.