D-Sucrose, identified by CAS number 57-50-1, is more than just a sweetener; its precise chemical properties and high purity standards are critical for its reliable performance across various applications. Delving into these characteristics reveals why it remains a preferred ingredient for discerning manufacturers.

The molecular formula C12H22O11 and molecular weight of 342.3 define sucrose’s fundamental chemical identity. As a disaccharide, it is composed of glucose and fructose units linked by a glycosidic bond. This specific linkage makes sucrose a non-reducing sugar, contributing to its chemical stability.

One of the key physical properties of D-Sucrose is its specific optical rotation, measured at +66.47° at 20°C. This characteristic is important for quality control and identification, particularly in analytical chemistry and pharmaceutical applications where precise measurements are essential. The ability of sucrose solutions to rotate plane-polarized light is a standard method for assaying its purity.

The purity of D-Sucrose is further assured by stringent limits on various impurities. Typical specifications include a very low chloride content (≤ 0.0035%) and sulfate content (≤ 0.006%). Heavy metals are also strictly controlled, with a limit of ≤ 5ppm, ensuring the safety and suitability of sucrose for food and pharmaceutical use. These parameters are critical for applications where even trace impurities could affect the final product's quality, efficacy, or safety.

The physical appearance of D-Sucrose as white or almost white crystals or crystalline powder is a direct indicator of its refined state. This consistent physical form is beneficial for handling, processing, and uniform dissolution in formulations.

Understanding these chemical properties and purity standards is paramount. For instance, in pharmaceutical tablet formulation, sucrose's predictable behavior and minimal reactivity as an excipient are highly valued. In food production, adhering to these purity standards ensures that the final product not only tastes good but also meets regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for safety and quality.

The production process, from sugar cane or beet to the refined crystalline powder, is meticulously controlled to meet these specifications. Manufacturers rely on these well-defined chemical properties – its molecular formula, optical rotation, and impurity profiles – to guarantee the consistent performance of D-Sucrose in everything from baked goods to complex industrial processes.