Benzoic Acid

Its use in the production of glycol benzoates for the application of plasticizer in adhesive formulations is increasing. The organic compound is also used in the manufacture of alkyd resins and drilling mud additive for crude oil recovery applications. It is also used as a rubber polymerization activator, retardant, resins, alkyd paint, plasticizers, dyestuffs, and fibers. Benzoic acid and its esters occur in apricots, cranberries, mushrooms and jasmine plants.

Physical Properties

• Benzoic acid has a colourless appearance in its solid state, which is of a crystalline nature.
• The crystal structure is monoclinic.
• The presence of the aromatic ring gives this compound a faintly pleasant odour.
• At a temperature of 130oC, the density of this compound reduces to 1.075 grams per cubic centimetre.

Chemical Properties

• It is soluble in water, and the solubility at 25oC and 100oC is 3.44 g/L and 56.31 g/L respectively.
• It is soluble in benzene, carbon tetrachloride, acetone, and alcohols.
• The acid dissociation constant (pKa) of benzoic acid corresponds to 4.2
• Its reactions can occur at the carboxyl group or even at the aromatic ring.