Name:  Gluconic acid

Synonyms:  D-Gluconic acid monopotassium salt; Gluconic acid potassium salt

Molecular Formula:C₆H₁₁KO₇

Molecular Weight:234.24

CAS Registry Number:299-27-4

EINECS:  206-074-2

Gluconic acid is an organic compound with molecular formula C₆H₁₂O₇ and condensed structural formula HOCH₂(CHOH)4COOH. In aqueous solution at neutral pH, gluconic acid forms the gluconate ion. The salts of gluconic acid are known as "gluconates". Gluconic acid and gluconate salts occur widely in nature because such species arise from the oxidation of glucose. Gluconate esters can also be formed, such as quinine gluconate which is used for intramuscular injection in the treatment of malaria. Gluconic acid occurs naturally in fruit, honey, kombucha tea, and wine. As a food additive (E574), it is an acidity regulator. It is also used in cleaning products where it dissolves mineral deposits especially in alkaline solution. The gluconate anion chelates Ca2+, Fe2+, Al3+, and other heavy metals. Calcium gluconate,in the form of a gel, is used to treat burns from hydrofluoric acid.

Speciafication

Product name	Gluconic acid
Molar mass	196 g/mol
Appearance	colorless crystals
Solubility in water	good
Acidity (pKa)	3.86
Melting point	172-173 ºC