Aliphatic, linear dicarboxylic acids and branched dicarboxylic acids are the subject of this article. These dibasic acids are referred to by their trivial names, IUPAC system or by adding the suffix “dicarboxylic acid“ to the name of the hydrocarbon skeleton. For example a 10‐carbon atom dibasic acid is designated sebacic acid, decanoic or 1,8‐octane‐dicarboxylic acid. Physical and chemical properties of the most common dibasic acids are discussed. Manufacture and uses for glutaric acid, pimelic acid, suberic acid, azelaic acid, sebacic acid, dodecanoic acid, brassylic acid and C‐19, C‐20, and C‐22 dicarboxylic acids are given. These diacids are intermediates for the manufacture of diesters, polyesters, and polyamides. These derivatives have many applications ,eg, as plasticizing agents, lubricants, heat‐transfer fuids, inks and coatings, insecticides. Azaleic acid is used in acne preparations. Toxicities and environmental concerns are also discussed.

Aliphatic, linear dicarboxylic acids of the general formula HOOC(CH 2 );ynCOOH, and branched dicarboxylic acids are the subject of this article. These dibasic acids are referred to by their trivial names, IUPAC system, or by adding the suffix “dicarboxylic acid” to the name of the hydrocarbon skeleton. For example, a 10‐carbon atom dibasic acid is designated sebacic acid, decanedioic, or 1,8‐octane‐dicarboxylic acid. Physical and chemical properties of most of the common dibasic acids are given and discussed. Manufacture, preparation, and processes for glutaric acid, pimelic acid, suberic acid, zelic acid, sebacic acid, dodecanedioic acid, brassylic acid, C‐19, C‐20, C‐21, and C‐22 dicarboxylic acids are given. Also discussed is the preparation of dicarboxylic acids using microorganisms. The diacids are important industrial intermediates for the manufacture of diesters, polyesters, and polyamides. These derivatives find application as plasticizing agents, lubricants, heat‐transfer fluids, dielectric fluids, fibers, copolymers, inks and coatings resins, surfactants, fungicides, insecticides, hot melt coatings, and adhesives. The prices and mode of shipment for the various commercial grades of the diacids are given. The toxicities and environmental effects of the diacids are also discussed.

Nomenclature Physical Properties Chemical Properties Manufacture, Preparation, and Processes Dicarboxylic Acids via Microorganisms Derivatives and Uses Economic Aspects Health and Safety Factors