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4,4′-Azobis(4-cyanovaleric acid) >98.0% | CAS 2638-94-0 | Premium Azo Initiator Supplier

High Purity >98% HPLC

4,4′-Azobis(4-cyanovaleric acid) (ACVA)

CAS: 2638-94-0 | Formula: C₁₂H₁₆N₄O₄ | Molecular Weight: 280.28 g/mol

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About This Product

4,4′-Azobis(4-cyanovaleric acid) is a premium-grade, water-soluble azo initiator extensively used in polymer chemistry, materials science, and advanced chemical synthesis. This high-purity radical initiator (>98.0%) offers exceptional thermal stability and controlled decomposition kinetics, making it an indispensable reagent for precise polymerization reactions in both research and industrial applications. Unlike hydrophobic azo initiators such as AIBN (Azobisisobutyronitrile), 4,4′-Azobis(4-cyanovaleric acid) features carboxylic acid functional groups that provide excellent solubility in water and polar solvents. This unique characteristic enables its use in emulsion polymerization, aqueous-based polymer synthesis, and biocompatible material development where traditional initiators are ineffective. The compound generates free radicals at predictable rates when heated (typically at 60-70°C), allowing researchers and manufacturers to achieve consistent, reproducible polymerization results with controlled molecular weight distributions. Its reliability and versatility have made it a standard choice in pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, specialty coatings, and advanced materials production.

Chemical & Physical Properties

PropertySpecification
Molecular FormulaC₁₂H₁₆N₄O₄
Molecular Weight280.28 g/mol
AppearanceWhite to off-white crystalline powder
Purity>98.0% (HPLC)
SolubilityWater, DMSO, Methanol, DMF
Melting Point105–110°C
Storage2–8°C (Refrigerated)

Applications & Uses in Industry and Research

Polymerization Initiator Applications

4,4′-Azobis(4-cyanovaleric acid) serves as a versatile free radical initiator across multiple polymerization methodologies.

Emulsion Polymerization

The water-soluble nature of ACVA makes it ideal for emulsion polymerization systems. It enables synthesis of latex polymers, acrylic emulsions, and styrene-butadiene copolymers used in coatings, adhesives, and paints.

Solution Polymerization

Effective in polar organic solvents for controlled radical polymerization of vinyl monomers, acrylamides, and methacrylates, producing polymers with narrow polydispersity.

Hydrogel Synthesis

Critical for biocompatible hydrogel creation used in tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, contact lenses, and wound dressings.

Block and Graft Copolymers

Enables synthesis of block copolymers, graft copolymers, and star polymers for advanced materials.

Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Applications

  • Manufacturing drug delivery polymers and nanoparticles
  • Synthesizing biocompatible polymer matrices for controlled release
  • Creating polymer-drug conjugates
  • Developing hydrogel scaffolds for regenerative medicine

Materials Science & Nanotechnology

  • Surface modification and functionalization of nanoparticles
  • Stimuli-responsive polymers and smart materials
  • Advanced functional coatings
  • Polymer brushes and surface grafting

Industrial Manufacturing

  • Coatings & Adhesives: Acrylic coatings, pressure-sensitive adhesives, protective coatings
  • Textile Industry: Fabric modification polymers
  • Paper Industry: Paper coating polymers and sizing agents
  • Specialty Chemicals: Superabsorbents, rheology modifiers, dispersants

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is 4,4′-Azobis(4-cyanovaleric acid) used for?

4,4′-Azobis(4-cyanovaleric acid) is primarily used as a water-soluble radical initiator for polymerization reactions. Its main applications include emulsion polymerization, acrylic polymer production, hydrogel synthesis, block copolymer development, and biomedical drug delivery polymers. It is especially valuable in aqueous systems where AIBN cannot be used.

What is the purity of your ACVA?

We supply ACVA with guaranteed purity greater than 98.0% verified by HPLC. Each batch includes a Certificate of Analysis (COA).

What quantities of ACVA can I order?
  • Research: 1g – 100g
  • Pilot: 100g – 1kg
  • Bulk: 1kg+
How should ACVA be stored?

Store at 2–8°C in a tightly sealed container. Shelf life exceeds two years under proper conditions.

What is the lead time for orders?

In-stock orders ship within 2–5 business days. Bulk orders may take 1–2 weeks.

Do you provide technical documentation?
  • COA
  • SDS/MSDS
  • Specification sheet
  • Handling & storage guidelines
Is ACVA suitable for pharmaceutical applications?

Yes, >98% grade is suitable for pharmaceutical R&D and biomedical polymer manufacturing.

What is the difference between ACVA and AIBN?

ACVA is water-soluble for aqueous polymerization. AIBN is oil-soluble for organic systems.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, worldwide temperature-controlled shipping available.

Can I request bulk pricing?

Yes, contact [email protected] for custom quotes.