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Hexadecyl acetate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C18H36O2
CAS number
629-45-8
IUPAC name
hexadecyl acetate
State
State

At room temperature, hexadecyl acetate is typically in a liquid state due to its slightly higher melting point. However, depending on the ambient temperature, it might appear as a soft solid or wax.

Melting point (Celsius)
19.50
Melting point (Kelvin)
292.65
Boiling point (Celsius)
343.90
Boiling point (Kelvin)
617.05
General information
Molecular weight
284.48g/mol
Molar mass
284.4840g/mol
Density
0.8530g/cm3
Appearence

Hexadecyl acetate appears as a colorless or very pale yellow liquid. It is a waxy ester and is often found in a solid state at room temperature if not in a pure form. The substance is known for its pear-like odor, often used in fragrance industries.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hexadecyl Acetate

Hexadecyl acetate, with the chemical formula C16H32O2, is a long-chain fatty acid ester derived from hexadecanol and acetic acid. Its solubility properties are particularly interesting due to its unique structure.

In general, the solubility of hexadecyl acetate can be summarized as follows:

  • Solvent Compatibility: It is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform.
  • Water Solubility: Hexadecyl acetate has very low solubility in water due to its hydrophobic long hydrocarbon chain.
  • Temperature Dependence: Solubility may increase at higher temperatures, particularly in organic solvents, as increased kinetic energy can help to overcome intermolecular forces.

Typically, compounds such as hexadecyl acetate exhibit:

  • Non-polar characteristics, which limit their interaction with polar solvents like water.
  • Amphiphilic behavior: While it is largely hydrophobic, there may be some interactions at lower concentrations or in the presence of surfactants.

As a result, hexadecyl acetate is often utilized in applications where its low aqueous solubility is advantageous, such as in various formulations in the cosmetic and fragrance industries. Thus, it embodies a fascinating interplay between hydrophobic and hydrophilic behavior.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Hexadecyl Acetate

Hexadecyl acetate, also known as cetyl acetate, is a fascinating compound within the realm of organic chemistry. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Structure and Composition: Hexadecyl acetate belongs to the family of fatty acid esters. It is formed from the reaction of hexadecanol and acetic acid, making it a simple molecular ester with a long hydrophobic chain.
  • Natural Occurrence: This compound can be found in trace amounts within natural sources such as essential oils and plant extracts, contributing to their unique aromas.
  • Applications: Hexadecyl acetate has several practical uses, such as:
    • Being employed in fragrances and flavorings due to its pleasant and fruity scent, making it a popular choice in the cosmetic and food industries.
    • Serving as a surfactant and emulsifier in various formulations.
  • Biological Aspects: Due to its fatty structure, hexadecyl acetate can interact with biological membranes, which makes it interesting for research in biochemistry and pharmacology.
  • Synthesis: The synthesis of hexadecyl acetate can be achieved through esterification, an important reaction in organic chemistry that involves the conversion of a carboxylic acid and an alcohol.
  • Research Potential: There is ongoing research to explore its potential roles in drug delivery systems, owing to its biocompatibility and ability to enhance membrane permeability.

In summary, hexadecyl acetate is not only valued for its fragrance and flavor properties but also serves as a critical component in various chemical applications and biological studies. Its simple structure belies a wealth of potential across different scientific fields.

Synonyms
Palmityl acetate
Hexadecyl acetate
Cetyl acetate
629-70-9
1-Hexadecanol, acetate
1-Acetoxyhexadecane
n-Hexadecyl ethanoate
Hexadecanol acetate
Acetic acid, hexadecyl ester
ENT 1025
1-Hexadecanol, 1-acetate
NSC 8492
EINECS 211-103-7
BRN 1782695
PELEMOL CA
AI3-01025
4Q43814HXS
NSC-8492
DTXSID2052312
CHEBI:146185
4-02-00-00171 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
1Acetoxyhexadecane
nHexadecyl ethanoate
1Hexadecanol, acetate
1Hexadecanol, 1acetate
CETYL ACETATE [INCI]
DTXCID9030884
211-103-7
1-HEXADECANOL ACETATE
n-hexadecyl acetate
PALMITYLACETATE
UNII-4Q43814HXS
Acelan A
hexadecanyl acetate
MFCD00056152
Acetic acid hexadecyl ester
SCHEMBL118101
CHEMBL137354
NSC8492
AAA62970
LMFA07010379
AKOS024390930
HY-W127540
AS-10426
CS-0185766
NS00001403
E82294
Q27260353