Brief Overview
PARA-HYDROXYBENZOIC ACID (PHBA), also known as 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid, is a phenolic derivative of benzoic acid. It is a solid that appears in a white crystal form. Its solubility in water is very small, however it is easily soluble in polar organic solvents such as alcohols and acetone. It is considered to be a precursor for other acids (mostly phenolic acids) in chemical reactions.
Manufacturing Process
Para-hydroxybenzoic acid is manufactured commercially from the Kolbe-Schmitt reaction of potassium phenoxide and carbon dioxide. Another way of its production is to heat potassium salicylate with potassium carbonate to 240 °C, and later treat the substance with acid.
Medical Applications:
In the medical industry, para-hydroxybenzoic acid is used in the production of aspirin. It is a precursor of salicylic acid which is the basic component of this medicine.
Pharmaceutical Applications:
In the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries it is used to prepare preservatives (mostly parabens) for shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, pharmaceuticals, personal lubricants, spray tanning solutions, and toothpaste.
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