2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid
2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid (CAS 490-79-9), a phenolic compound with the linear formula (HO)₂C₆H₃CO₂H, possesses a molecular weight of 154.12 g/mol. It is primarily recognised for its utility as a matrix in MALDI time-of-flight mass spectrometry for analysing polymer copolymers. With an assay of 98%, it serves as a valuable reagent in chemical synthesis and research applications where precise matrix properties are essential for accurate spectral analysis.
- IUPAC
- 2,5-DHBA,DHB,Gentisic acid,Hydroquinonecarboxylic acid
- Synonyms
- (HO)2C6H3CO2H2,5-DHBADHBGentisic acidHydroquinonecarboxylic acid

MALDI Matrix
2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid is employed as a matrix material in Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry. This application is crucial for the analysis of various organic molecules, including polymers like poly(styrene-co-pentafluorostyrene).
Chemical Synthesis
As a dihydroxybenzoic acid derivative, this compound serves as a building block in organic synthesis. Its functional groups allow for further chemical modifications and incorporation into more complex molecular structures for various research purposes.
Analytical Chemistry
The compound's spectral properties and ability to co-crystallise with analytes make it suitable for specific analytical techniques. Its use as a matrix aids in the ionisation and detection of analytes that might otherwise be difficult to analyse via mass spectrometry.
| Molecular weight | 154.12 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | (HO)2C6H3CO2H |
| Assay | 98% |
| Application | 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid was used as a matrix in the MALDI time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis of the poly(styrene-co-pentafluorostyrene) copolymers1. |
| Melting point | 204-208 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 22-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
| Cation traces | Ba: ≤5 mg/kgCa: ≤5 mg/kgCd: ≤5 mg/kgCo: ≤5 mg/kgCr: ≤5 mg/kgCu: ≤5 mg/kgK: ≤5 mg/kgMg: ≤5 mg/kgMn: ≤5 mg/kgNa: ≤5 mg/kgNi: ≤5 mg/kgPb: ≤5 mg/kgZn: ≤5 mg/kg |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Absorption | extinction/337 nm >2000 |
|---|---|
| Analyte Suitability | glycanslipidsorganic moleculespeptidespolymersproteins |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid used for?
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2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid is primarily used as a matrix in MALDI time-of-flight mass spectrometry for the analysis of polymers and other organic molecules. It also finds application as a building block in chemical synthesis.
What is the CAS number and formula for 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid?
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The CAS number for 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid is 490-79-9, and its linear formula is (HO)₂C₆H₃CO₂H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid with an assay of 98%. This product is intended for research and chemical synthesis purposes and is not represented as USP, BP, EP, or other pharmacopoeial grades.
What are the safety and handling recommendations for 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid?
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2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid is classified with the GHS07 symbol and carries a 'Warning' signal word. It is harmful if swallowed (H302), causes skin irritation (H315), causes serious eye irritation (H319), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335). Recommended personal protective equipment includes a dust mask type N95 (US), eyeshields, and gloves. Always handle in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhalation of dust. In case of accidental eye contact, rinse cautiously with water for several minutes (P305 + P351 + P338).
How is 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid packed, shipped, and exported?
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Tech Serve Solutions expertly packs, ships, and exports fine chemicals globally, adhering to all necessary regulations. Specific packaging details can be provided upon request.
How can I request a sample or quote for 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid?
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To request a sample or a quote for 2,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid, please contact our sales department through the website or by phone. Our team will assist you with your inquiry.
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