Method of preparing monopotassium L-malate and its monohydrate

摘要

An aqueous solution of L-malic acid and potassium ion is prepared having a pH of no more than 6.8. The aqueous solution is cooled to initiate crystallization of a potassium salt of L-malic acid, and the aqueous mixture obtained is allowed to stand at a pH of 5.3 to 6.8 until it substantially reaches liquid-solid equilibrium. The resultant crystals of monopotassium L-malate monohydrate are collected therefrom. The monopotassium L-malate monohydrate thus obtained may be dried to give the corresponding anhydrate. Monopotassium L-malate and its monohydrate are stable, non-hygroscopic crystals.