In the landscape of chemistry, several fascinating compounds are reshaping various industries with their presence. In this realm, one compound has captured the attention of scientists, health enthusiasts, and industry innovators–succinic acid, a remarkable chemical compound. From industries like, chemicals to pharmaceuticals, this extraordinary acid is revolutionizing various industries.
So, let’s dive in and explore this acid and its potential.
What is Succinic Acid?
Succinic acid, or butanedioic acid, is a dicarboxylic acid that occurs naturally and is found in plant and animal tissues. It is a colorless crystalline solid with a highly acidic taste and is soluble in water.
In terms of its chemical properties, butanedioic acid is an alpha, omega-dicarboxylic acid created by the formal oxidation of each terminal methyl group of butane with the corresponding carboxylic group. It has a highly acidic sensation and readily ionizes in an aqueous solution to form its conjugate base, succinate.
Its chemical properties and versatile applications make it a valuable compound in various industries. According to Extrapolate, the global succinic acid market is likely to reach USD 209.1 million by 2030. These numbers show the significant growth of this industry.
Where is Succinic Acid Found Naturally?
Apart from living cells, butanedioic acid is naturally found in various foods, including broccoli, rhubarb, sugar beets, fresh meat extracts, cheeses varieties, sauerkraut, apples, asparagus, and amber or sugar cane. It is also present in food products such as wine, dairy products, eggs, sauce, and bakery waste, highlighting its natural occurrence in a diverse range of food sources. Additionally, butanedioic acid is available as a dietary supplement.
Exploring Succinic Acid Benefits for Health
Butanedioic acid offers several potential health benefits. Below are some of the major benefits.
- It improves energy levels, reduces fatigue, and potentially aids in combating tiredness and enhancing overall vitality.
- It is used to support cognitive function and improve mental clarity, offering various benefits to brain health.
- It also helps reduce inflammation, which may have implications for various health conditions.
- It is helpful to improve digestion, indicating potential benefits for gastrointestinal wellness.
- It also helps reduce stress and anxiety, potentially contributing to mental well-being.
- It is widely used to improve skin health, reduce wrinkles, and improve hair and nail health. It is also useful in anti-aging.
- It can potentially boost the immune system, aiding in overall health and wellness.
Digging into the Key Applications of Succinic Acid in Various Industries
Butanedioic acid has a wide range of uses across several industries. Some of the key applications include:
● Pharmaceutical Industry
In the pharmaceutical industry, butanedioic acid is used as a raw material for succinimide, ferrous succinate, and N-bromosuccinimide. It is also utilized as an antibiotic and a curative agent for many processes.
● Food and Beverage Industry
This acid is used as a flavor enhancer in the production of disodium succinate for food. It is used as a buffer, sequestrant, and neutralizing agent in varied food products.
● Chemical Industry
This acid is an intermediate in several chemical processes and is used in the production of various products. It is used as a surfactant, an ion chelator, and an additive in various chemical applications.
● Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry
Butanedioic acid has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and acne-fighting properties. It is used in skincare products for its hydrating effects and is considered a hot new ingredient in skincare products.
● Healthcare Industry
This acid has applications in the healthcare industry, particularly in the production of vacuum systems for the industrial sterilization of medical devices. Additionally, the succinic acid dehydrogenase of certain bacteria is relevant in healthcare applications.
● Other Industries
It is widely used in various other industries, including the production of biodegradable plastics, and coatings. It is a vital ingredient in renewable industry applications and is used in the production of polyurethanes, resins, and more.
What’s New: Unveiling the Innovative Methods of Succinic Acid Production
Below are the novel methods used to produce butanedioic acid.
1. Using CO2
Butanedioic acid shows versatile chemical uses in various industries. Professor Elke Nevoigt and his team at Jacobs University Bremen have developed an innovative process to produce succinic acid. The process involves incorporating carbon dioxide more efficiently, making the production of butanedioic acid more economical. The team is currently studying glycerol as a substitute for carbon sources, a byproduct of biodiesel production. This method offers environmental impact and energy efficiency, as well as increased butanedioic acid production and CO2 fixation.
2. Using Issatchenkia orientalis
CABBI, a U.S. Department of Energy Bioenergy Research Center, has developed a method for producing succinic acid using Issatchenkia orientalis, an unconventional yeast ideal for organic succinic acid production. Issatchenkia orientalis exhibits optimal growth in acidic environments, leading to reduced expenses and decreased reliance on supplementary substances. Researchers rewired Issatchenkia orientalis to produce high levels of the acid, achieving a yield of 64% after batch fermentation and downstream processing. The process is cost-effective and could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 34% to 90% compared to fossil fuel-based production processes. The process emits less carbon dioxide (CO2) than other conventional chemical processes, thereby reducing its carbon footprint.
Bottom Line
Succinic or butanedioic acid has proven to be a game changer in various industries, ranging from pharmaceuticals and food production to cosmetics, healthcare, and chemicals. It has shown an evident impact in the healthcare sector, supporting cognitive, digestive, and immune system health. butanedioic acid plays a vital role in skincare and anti-aging formulations while redefining the landscape of personal care. With innovative methods of butanedioic acid production, it is poised to play a pivotal role in the sustainable development of various products and processes.
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