Decanoic acid
Decanoic acid (CAS 334-48-5), also known as capric acid, is a saturated fatty acid with the linear formula CH3(CH2)8COOH and a molecular weight of 172.26 g/mol. This C10 carboxylic acid is a waxy solid at room temperature, melting around 27-32°C. It occurs naturally in various animal and vegetable fats and oils, including coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Decanoic acid serves as a key building block in chemical synthesis and finds applications in diverse industries.
- IUPAC
- 1-Nonanecarboxylic acid,Acid C10,C10:0,Capric acid,NSC 5025
- Synonyms
- 1-Nonanecarboxylic acidAcid C10C10:0Capric acidNSC 5025

Chemical Synthesis
Decanoic acid is a valuable precursor in organic synthesis, used for the production of various esters, amides, and other derivatives. These compounds can find use in fragrances, lubricants, and plasticizers.
Industrial Applications
As a fatty acid, decanoic acid is employed in the manufacturing of soaps, detergents, and emulsifiers. Its properties make it suitable for use in rubber and textile processing.
Research and Development
This compound is utilised in biochemical research, cell biology studies, and nutrition research due to its role as a medium-chain fatty acid. It serves as a standard or reagent in analytical chemistry.
| Molecular weight | 172.26 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CH3(CH2)8COOH |
| Assay | ≥98.0% (GC) |
| Boiling point | 123-124 °C/0.1 mmHg268-270 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.893 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | 15 mmHg (160 °C) |
| Melting point | 27-32 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 110 °C / 230 °F |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Shelf Life | (limited shelf life, expiry date on the label) |
|---|
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Decanoic acid used for?
+
Decanoic acid is used in chemical synthesis, industrial applications such as the production of soaps and detergents, and in research for biochemical and nutrition studies.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Decanoic acid?
+
The CAS number is 334-48-5 and the linear formula is CH3(CH2)8COOH.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Decanoic acid with a purity of ≥98.0% (GC). This product is not represented as USP, BP, EP, or any pharmacopoeia grade.
How is Decanoic acid safely handled?
+
Decanoic acid is classified with GHS07 signal word 'Warning', with hazards H315 (Causes skin irritation), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), and H335 (May cause respiratory irritation). Recommended personal protective equipment includes a dust mask type N95 (US), eyeshields, and gloves. Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid inhalation of dust or vapours.
How is Decanoic acid packed and shipped?
+
Tech Serve Solutions exports and supplies Decanoic acid in appropriate packaging suitable for international shipping. Please contact us for specific packaging details.
How can I request a quote or sample?
+
To request a quote or sample for Decanoic acid, please contact our sales team via the website or by phone.
▶ Related products

1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)piperazine
C11H15FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)biguanide hydrochloride
Chemical Synthesis

1-(2-Fluorophenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid
C10H9FO2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine
C10H13FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine monohydrochloride
C10H13FN2 · HCl
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)-1H-benzotriazole
C11H7N3O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)piperazine
C9H12N2O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione
Chemical Synthesis
▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis