Protocatechuic acid is white to brownish needle like crystal with a melting point of about 200 ℃ (decomposition). Soluble in hot water, ethanol and ether, slightly soluble in cold water, insoluble in benzene. It decomposes in boiling water and emits carbon dioxide. The aqueous solution is green in the presence of ferric chloride and dark red in the presence of sodium bicarbonate.
Protocatechuic acid can be used to study the effects of 4-coumaric acid and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid on the oxidative DNA damage of colonic mucosa in rats. It can be used for derivatization of chitosan resin.
Application: Used as dye, medicine intermediate, analytical reagent (iron detection).