Succinic acid is a diprotic, dicarboxylic acid with chemical formula C4H6O4 and structural formula HOOC-(CH2)2-COOH. It is a white, odorless solid. Succinate plays a role in the citric acid cycle, an energy-yielding process. Succinic acid is produced by several methods. Common industrial routes include hydrogenation of maleic acid, oxidation of 1,4-butanediol, and carbonylation of ethylene glycol. More recently, succinic acid is being produced through the fermentation of glucose from renewable feedstock and purification of raw bio-based succinic acid. Succinic acid can be converted into fumaric acid by oxidation. The diethyl ester is a substrate in the Stobbe condensation. Dehydration of succinic acid gives succinic anhydride. Succinic acid is a precursor to some specialized polyesters. It is also a component of some alkyd resins. Succinic acid is used in the food and beverage industry, primarily as an acidity regulator.
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