Skip to main content

Butyl octanoate

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C12H24O2
CAS number
17639-44-0
IUPAC name
butyl octanoate
State
State

At room temperature, butyl octanoate is a liquid. Being an ester, it is generally less dense than water and exhibits hydrophobic properties, making it insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.

Melting point (Celsius)
-65.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
208.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
220.90
Boiling point (Kelvin)
494.05
General information
Molecular weight
200.32g/mol
Molar mass
200.3190g/mol
Density
0.8710g/cm3
Appearence

Butyl octanoate is a clear, colorless liquid. It is characterized by its fruity odor, which is commonly associated with the scent of apricots or other stone fruits. It is part of a class of compounds known as esters, which are often used as flavorings and fragrances.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Butyl Octanoate

Butyl octanoate, with the chemical formula C12H24O2, exhibits intriguing solubility characteristics that are influenced by its molecular structure. This compound, a fruity-smelling ester, is primarily known for its presence in natural products and its use in various applications.

Solubility Characteristics:

  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: Butyl octanoate is highly soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and hexane. This solubility is facilitated by its nonpolar character, which allows it to intermingle effectively with other nonpolar compounds.
  • Solubility in Water: However, when it comes to aqueous solutions, butyl octanoate has a very low solubility in water. The compound's hydrophobic nature characteristically limits its ability to dissolve in polar solvents like water.
  • Influence of Temperature: As with many esters, solubility can be influenced by temperature. Increased temperatures generally promote solubility in organic solvents but have minimal effect in polar solvents.

In summary, the solubility profile of butyl octanoate can be summarized simply: it demonstrates excellent solubility in organic solvents while struggling to dissolve in water. Understanding these solubility traits is essential for applications ranging from flavoring to industrial uses, highlighting the fascinating interplay of molecular properties and environmental factors.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Butyl Octanoate

Butyl octanoate is a fascinating ester that carries both practical applications and captivating properties. This compound is formed from the reaction of butanol and octanoic acid, showcasing the beautiful chemistry of esterification. Here are some insightful points about butyl octanoate:

  • Flavor and Aroma: Butyl octanoate is known for its fruity fragrance, reminiscent of bananas and pears, making it a popular choice in the food and fragrance industries. Its sweet odor can enhance the sensory appeal of various products.
  • Applications: Beyond its aromatic qualities, this compound is used in numerous applications such as:
    • Food additives as a flavoring agent
    • Fragrance formulations in cosmetics and perfumes
    • Solvents and plasticizers in the manufacturing of plastics
    • As a skin-conditioning agent in personal care products
  • Biodegradability: As society continues to prioritize sustainability, butyl octanoate stands out for its biodegradability in the environment, minimizing its ecological footprint compared to some synthetic alternatives.
  • Role in Chemistry: The synthesis of butyl octanoate serves as an excellent demonstration for students learning organic chemistry, emphasizing concepts such as:
    • Esterification reactions
    • Reflux techniques
    • Phase separation during product extraction
  • Potential Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that natural esters like butyl octanoate may have antioxidant properties, indicating potential health benefits when used appropriately.

In summary, butyl octanoate is not just a compound with a pleasant smell; it exemplifies the interconnectedness of chemistry, industry, and nature. By understanding its properties and applications, we can appreciate the intricate role it plays in our daily lives.

Synonyms
BUTYL OCTANOATE
Butyl caprylate
Octanoic acid, butyl ester
Caprylic acid n-butyl ester
n-Butyl n-octanoate
n-Caprylic acid n-butyl ester
4I64Y9N2WO
EINECS 209-659-0
NSC 23740
NSC-23740
UNII-4I64Y9N2WO
AI3-30983
DTXSID0060432
CHEBI:87380
butyl caprylic acid
butyl octanoic acid
N-Butylcaprylic acid
N-Butyl octanoic acid
DTXCID1042495
209-659-0
4-02-00-00922 (beilstein handbook reference)
ai3-06129
brn 1754426
butyl caproate (natural)
einecs 210-964-6
nsc 4022
psxndmjwrzyvtm-uhfffaoysa-n
unii-ebk588q27t
589-75-3
Butyl n-Octanoate
n-Butylcaprylate
n-Butyl octanoate
Butyl-caprylate
Octanoic acid butyl ester
MFCD00048918
Butyl octanoate, AldrichCPR
n-Octanoic Acid Butyl Ester
SCHEMBL120635
NSC23740
HY-W127520
BS-48878
CS-0185747
NS00012057
O0029
D91788
Q27159575