3-Nitrobenzoic Acid Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Basic Information

English name: 3-Nitrobenzoic acid

CAS No.: 121-92-6

Molecular formula: C₇H₅NO₄

Molecular weight: 167.12

EINECS No.: 204-508-5

3-Nitrobenzoic acid (CAS 121-92-6) is an important aromatic carboxylic acid widely used as a pharmaceutical intermediate (e.g., in contrast agents), dyes, photosensitive materials, and organic synthesis. The product is of high purity, stable supply, suitable for both R&D and industrial production.

I. Basic Information

Q1: What is the chemical name of 3-Nitrobenzoic acid?

A: 3-Nitrobenzoic acid (abbreviated as m-NBA).

Q2: What is the CAS number of 3-nitrobenzoic acid?

A: CAS 121-92-6.

Q3: What are the molecular formula and molecular weight of 3-nitrobenzoic acid?

A: Molecular formula: C₇H₅NO₄; Molecular weight: 167.12 g/mol.

Q4: What are the isomers of nitrobenzoic acid?

A: There are three isomers of nitrobenzoic acid: ortho- (o-), meta- (m-), and para- (p-). They differ in melting point, solubility, and reactivity, and are used in different synthetic routes.

II. Physical and Chemical Properties

Q5: What is the appearance of 3-nitrobenzoic acid?

A: White to off-white crystalline powder with a faint almond-like odor.

Q6: What are the melting point and solubility of 3-nitrobenzoic acid?

A: Melting point: 139–142°C. Solubility: Soluble in ethanol, acetone, and diethyl ether; slightly soluble in benzene and water; 1 g dissolves in about 350 mL of water, and more soluble in hot water.

Q7: Is 3-nitrobenzoic acid soluble in water?

A: It is slightly soluble in cold water but more soluble in hot water. It has good solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone.

III. Application Areas

Q8: What are the main uses of 3-nitrobenzoic acid?

A: It is mainly used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, such as X-ray contrast agents (e.g., iopanoic acid, iodipamide), dyes, photosensitive materials, and pesticides. It is also used as a standard in organic microanalysis.

Q9: What is the difference in use between 3-nitrobenzoic acid and other nitrobenzoic acid isomers?

A: The choice of isomer depends on the structural requirements of the target product. For example, some drug syntheses require a meta-substituted group, in which case 3-nitrobenzoic acid must be used and cannot be replaced by ortho or para isomers.

IV. Safety and Storage

Q10: Is 3-nitrobenzoic acid a hazardous product?

A: Under normal transport conditions, it is not classified as a dangerous chemical and can be shipped as a general chemical. However, the powder is combustible. It poses a fire risk in the presence of open flame, high heat, or strong oxidizers; proper handling precautions are still required.

Q11: How should 3-Nitrobenzoic acid be stored safely?

A: Store in a cool, well-ventilated, dry warehouse, keep container sealed and protected from light, away from fire, heat, oxidizers, and alkalis. The shelf life is generally 5 years.

Q12: What protective measures are needed when handling 3-nitrobenzoic acid?

A: It is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles, dust mask, and rubber gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling dust.

Q13: What should be done in case of a spill?

A: Isolate the spill area, cut off ignition sources, wear protective clothing and dust mask, carefully collect the spilled material with clean tools into a dry, sealed container, and dispose of it through professional waste treatment units.

V. Procurement and Packaging

Q14: What packaging sizes are available for 3-Nitrobenzoic acid?

A: Standard packaging is 25 kg/fiber drum (lined with PE film). Custom sizes such as 10 kg, 15 kg, or small sample packages (e.g., 500 g, 1 kg aluminum foil bag) are also available upon request.

Q15: What purity grades are available?

A: Common grades include industrial grade (≥99%) and reagent grade (≥99.5%). Please contact us for the Certificate of Analysis (COA) of specific batches.