The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number of a compound, including PCA (Phosphonated Carboxylic Acid), serves as a unique identifier for the chemical substance. The CAS number is widely used in scientific literature, industry, and regulatory environments to ensure accurate identification of chemicals and to avoid confusion between compounds that may have similar names but differ in structure or properties.
Role of PCA’s CAS Number:
- Unique Identification:
- Every chemical compound, including PCA, is assigned a unique CAS number. This number serves as a reliable identifier, ensuring that the specific structure and composition of PCA are accurately referenced in databases, safety information, research papers, and chemical inventories.
- Standardization:
- The CAS number provides a standardized, universal system for identifying chemicals. This helps in ensuring clarity when communicating about the chemical across various sectors, including research, industry, regulatory bodies, and commerce. For PCA, the CAS number would help distinguish it from other chemicals that might have similar names but different molecular structures.
- Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
- The CAS number is essential for ensuring compliance with safety regulations. It allows professionals to access relevant safety data, including handling instructions, toxicity information, environmental impact, and regulations specific to PCA. This is critical for ensuring safe usage in industries like water treatment, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.
- Chemical Databases:
- The CAS number is used to search chemical databases such as SciFinder, ChemSpider, or Reaxys, where detailed information about the chemical’s properties, applications, and potential hazards can be found. For example, if PCA has a specific CAS number, one can easily retrieve its molecular formula, structure, and related data.
- Inventory Management and Trade:
- In commercial applications, the CAS number ensures consistency and accuracy when PCA is purchased or sold. Suppliers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies use the CAS number for record-keeping, inventory management, and to verify the authenticity of the chemical during trade.
In summary:
The CAS number of PCA serves as a crucial tool for identifying, standardizing, and managing the chemical substance across multiple sectors. It helps in ensuring clear communication, safety compliance, and efficient handling in research, industry, and regulatory settings.