Description

1,3-Dihydroxyacetone (CAS NO 96-26-4) is a fundamental ketose sugar and a key intermediate in carbohydrate metabolism. Its primary commercial value lies in its unique ability to react with amino acids in the skin to produce a temporary, natural-looking tan, making it the active ingredient in sunless tanning products. This versatile chemical is also essential in the synthesis of fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and as a building block for biodegradable polymers. Industries ranging from cosmetics and personal care to pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals rely on its consistent quality and reactivity.

Application

• Sunless Tanning Agent: The primary active ingredient in self-tanning lotions, creams, sprays, and mousses for cosmetic and dermatological use.
• Pharmaceutical Intermediate: Used in the synthesis of various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and prodrugs.
• Biochemical Research: Serves as a standard and reagent in studies of carbohydrate metabolism, glycolysis, and enzymatic processes.
• Specialty Chemical Synthesis: A building block for producing surfactants, plasticizers, and biodegradable polymers.
• Food Additive & Flavoring: Used as a browning agent for foods and in the production of certain flavor compounds (where compliant with appropriate food-grade specifications).
• Crosslinking Agent: Employed in polymer chemistry for crosslinking and modifying resins.

Basic Information

Product Name	1,3-Dihydroxyacetone
CAS No.	96-26-4
Molecular Formula	C3H6O3
Molecular Weight	90.08 g/mol
Synonyms	Dihydroxyacetone; DHA; 1,3-Dihydroxy-2-propanone; Glycerone; Dihydroxy propane; Oxantin; Tanning Agent DHA; NSC 7369; AI3-14646
EINECS	202-494-5

Quality Control

Our 1,3-Dihydroxyacetone is manufactured under a strict quality management system. It can be produced to meet various grade requirements, including Cosmetic Grade and Pharmaceutical Intermediate standards. Each batch undergoes rigorous analytical testing, including HPLC for assay and purity, to ensure compliance with specified parameters. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing identity, purity, and impurity profiles is provided with every shipment to guarantee traceability and consistency.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at room temperature (15-25°C). This product is hygroscopic (moisture-sensitive); the container must be kept tightly sealed to prevent absorption of atmospheric moisture, which can lead to caking or degradation.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	White to off-white crystalline powder
Identification (IR)	Conforms
Assay (HPLC)	≥ 98.0%
Melting Point	75 - 80 °C
Loss on Drying	≤ 2.0%
Residue on Ignition	≤ 0.1%
Heavy Metals (as Pb)	≤ 10 ppm
Specific Rotation	Contact for details

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.