Dodecanedioic acid (DDDA) is a dicarboxylic acid with the formula (CH2)10(CO2H)2. A white solid, the compound finds a variety of applications ranging from polymers to materials. The unbranched compound is the most commonly encountered C12 dicarboxylic acid.
Paraffin wax can be converted into DDDA on a laboratory scale[4] with a special strain of Candida tropicalis yeast in a multi-step process.[5] Renewable plant-oil feedstocks sourced from switchgrass could also be used to produce DDDA.[1]
Uses
DDDA is used in antiseptics, top-grade coatings, painting materials, corrosion inhibitors, surfactants, and polymers. It is one of two precursors to the engineering plasticnylon 612.[6] The once commercial nylon called Qiana was produced on scale using DDDA. DDDA ester with ethylene glycol is a synthetic musk of the macrocyclic lactones group commercially marketed as "Arova 16".
Medical
In type 2 diabetic patients DDDA demonstrated that IV infusion helps to maintain normal blood sugar and energy levels without increasing the blood glucose load in the process.[7]