Hexanoic acid
Hexanoic acid (CAS: 142-62-1), also known as caproic acid, is a six-carbon saturated fatty acid with the linear formula CH3(CH2)4COOH and a molecular weight of 116.16 g/mol. This compound presents as a colourless liquid with a characteristic pungent odour. It is sparingly soluble in water but readily soluble in organic solvents like diethyl ether and ethanol. Hexanoic acid serves as a valuable building block in chemical synthesis and finds applications in the flavour and fragrance industry.
- IUPAC
- Acid C6,Caproic acid
- Synonyms
- Caproic acidHexanoic acidn-Hexanoic acidn-Caproic acidButylacetic acid
Chemical Synthesis
Hexanoic acid is utilised as a fundamental organic building block in various chemical synthesis pathways. Its carboxylic acid functionality allows for esterification, amidation, and other derivative reactions, making it a versatile intermediate in organic chemistry.
Flavour and Fragrance Industry
Due to its distinctive odour profile, hexanoic acid and its esters are employed in the creation of artificial flavours and fragrances. It contributes to the characteristic notes of certain fruits and dairy products.
Lubricant Additives
Derivatives of hexanoic acid can be incorporated into formulations as additives for lubricants. These compounds can enhance performance characteristics such as lubricity and corrosion inhibition.
| Molecular weight | 116.16 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CH3(CH2)4COOH |
| Assay | 99% |
| Boiling point | 202-203 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.927 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.4161(lit.) |
| Solubility | H2O: slightly solublediethyl ether: easily solubleethanol: easily soluble |
| Melting point | −4 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | 0.18 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Vapour density | 4 (vs air) |
Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H311Toxic in contact with skin
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, Goggles, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 102 °C / 215.6 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2829 8 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C |
| Risk statements (R) | 20/21/22-34 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37/39-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
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 Hexanoic acid used for?
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Hexanoic acid is used as a building block in chemical synthesis, in the flavour and fragrance industry, and as a component in lubricant additives.
What are the CAS number and formula for Hexanoic acid?
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The CAS number for Hexanoic acid is 142-62-1 and its linear formula is CH3(CH2)4COOH.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Hexanoic acid with an assay of 99%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Hexanoic acid be handled safely?
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Hexanoic acid is a corrosive substance that is harmful if swallowed, causes severe skin burns and eye damage, and is toxic if inhaled. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection, and handle in a well-ventilated area. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed handling and emergency procedures.
How is Hexanoic acid packed, shipped, and exported?
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Hexanoic acid is shipped according to international regulations for hazardous materials. Please contact our sales team for specific packaging and shipping details relevant to your region.
How can I request a sample or quote for Hexanoic acid?
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To request a sample or a quote for Hexanoic acid, please contact our customer service team via the website or by phone, providing your specific requirements.
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