Caproic acid is a six-carbon fatty acid with a pungent odor. It is used in the production of esters, perfumes, lubricants, and as a food flavoring agent.
| IUPAC Name | Hexanoic acid |
| Molecular Formula | C6H12O2 |
| CAS Number | 142-62-1 |
| Synonyms | Hexanoic acid, n-Caproic acid |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C6H12O2/c1-2-3-4-5-6(7)8/h2-5H2,1H3,(H,7,8) |
Caproic Acid Properties
Caproic Acid Formula
The formula of hexanoic acid is C6H12O2. It consists of six carbon atoms, twelve hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. The molecular formula provides important information about the composition of hexanoic acid.
Caproic Acid Molar Mass
The molar mass of hexanoic acid is 116.16 g/mol. It is calculated by summing the atomic masses of all the atoms in one molecule of hexanoic acid. The molar mass is crucial for various calculations, such as determining the amount of hexanoic acid in a given sample.
Caproic Acid Boiling Point
Hexanoic acid has a boiling point of 205°C (401°F). The boiling point indicates the temperature at which hexanoic acid changes from a liquid to a gas. It is an important property for processes involving the purification or distillation of hexanoic acid.
Caproic Acid Melting Point
The melting point of hexanoic acid is around -3.4°C (25.9°F). This is the temperature at which solid hexanoic acid transforms into a liquid. The melting point is significant for various applications, such as controlling the solidification or crystallization of hexanoic acid.
Caproic Acid Density g/mL
Hexanoic acid has a density of approximately 0.92 g/mL. Density is the measure of mass per unit volume and provides insight into the compactness of hexanoic acid. It is useful in determining the concentration or purity of hexanoic acid in a solution.
Caproic Acid Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of hexanoic acid is 116.16 g/mol. Molecular weight represents the mass of a single molecule of hexanoic acid and is utilized in stoichiometric calculations and determining the quantities of reactants and products in chemical reactions.
Caproic Acid Structure
The structure of hexanoic acid consists of a chain of six carbon atoms with a carboxylic acid functional group (-COOH) at one end. This straight-chain structure contributes to its chemical properties and interactions with other substances.
Caproic Acid Solubility
Hexanoic acid is sparingly soluble in water but dissolves readily in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and benzene. The solubility of hexanoic acid is influenced by the length of its carbon chain and the polar nature of the solvent.
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 0.92 g/mL |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Pungent |
| Molar Mass | 116.16 g/mol |
| Density | 0.92 g/mL |
| Melting Point | -3.4°C |
| Boiling Point | 205°C |
| Flash Point | 93°C |
| Water Solubility | Sparingly soluble |
| Solubility | Soluble in organic solvents (ethanol, ether, benzene) |
| Vapour Pressure | 0.74 mmHg at 25°C |
| Vapour Density | 4.01 (air = 1) |
| pKa | 4.89 |
| pH | Approximately 5-6 |
Caproic Acid Safety and Hazards
Hexanoic acid can pose certain safety hazards and precautions should be taken when handling it. It can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon direct contact or inhalation of its vapors. Protective measures such as gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation should be used. Ingestion of hexanoic acid may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. It is flammable and should be stored away from ignition sources. In case of a spill, proper cleanup procedures should be followed. It is important to handle hexanoic acid with care and adhere to safety guidelines to minimize potential risks and ensure a safe working environment.
| Hazard Symbols | GHS07 (Exclamation mark) |
| Safety Description | Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Use in a well-ventilated area. |
| UN IDs | UN 2829 |
| HS Code | 2915.50.00 |
| Hazard Class | Class 8 (Corrosive) |
| Packing Group | PG III |
| Toxicity | Low toxicity; irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. |
Caproic Acid Synthesis Methods
Hexanoic acid can be synthesized through various methods. One common method is the oxidation of hexanol using oxidizing agents such as potassium permanganate (KMnO4) or chromic acid (H2CrO4). In this process, hexanol undergoes oxidation to form hexanoic acid.
Another approach involves the hydrolysis of caprolactone, a cyclic ester derived from hexanoic acid. By treating caprolactone with water, it breaks down into hexanoic acid.
Microorganisms, specifically bacteria or fungi, convert glucose or other sugar sources into hexanoic acid through the fermentation of sugars or carbohydrates. This bioconversion method enables the production of hexanoic acid in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.
In the production of hexanoic acid, one can obtain it by carboxylating butyraldehyde with carbon monoxide and employing a suitable catalyst like a nickel or cobalt complex.
Additionally, hexanoic acid can be synthesized through the hydrogenation of adipic acid, which is a precursor compound. The hydrogenation process reduces the double bonds in adipic acid, resulting in the formation of hexanoic acid.
These synthesis methods offer various routes to produce hexanoic acid, each with its own advantages and considerations. The choice of method depends on factors such as availability of starting materials, desired yield, and environmental considerations.
Caproic Acid Uses
Hexanoic acid finds numerous applications across various industries due to its versatile properties. Here are some common uses:
- The fragrance and flavoring industries commonly use hexanoic acid in the production of esters.
- Hexanoic acid imparts a fruity or buttery scent to various perfumes, making it a key ingredient in their manufacturing.
- The food industry utilizes hexanoic acid as a flavoring agent, giving a distinctive and tangy taste.
- Lubricant production for machinery and equipment operating under high temperatures and pressures incorporates hexanoic acid as a raw material.
- Hexanoic acid serves as a building block in the synthesis of plasticizers, enhancing the flexibility and durability of plastics.
- The pharmaceutical industry employs hexanoic acid as an intermediate chemical for the manufacture of antiseptics and antimicrobial agents.
- Adhesives and coatings industries utilize hexanoic acid in the synthesis of ester-based polymers.
- Hexanoic acid acts as a starting material in the production of caprolactam, a crucial component in nylon manufacturing.
- Personal care products, like soaps and lotions, incorporate hexanoic acid in the synthesis of flavors and fragrances.
- Various industries use hexanoic acid as a corrosion inhibitor to protect metal surfaces from degradation.
These diverse applications highlight the versatility of hexanoic acid across several industries, from fragrance and flavoring to pharmaceuticals and materials manufacturing.
Questions:
Q: What is the molecular formula for caproic acid?
A: The molecular formula for hexanoic acid is C6H12O2.
Q: What is the carbon percentage in caproic acid?
A: Hexanoic acid contains 54.55% carbon.
Q: What are the sources of caproic acid?
A: Hexanoic acid can be found in various natural sources, including dairy products, such as butter and cheese, as well as certain plant oils.
Q: Is caproic acid antimicrobial?
A: Yes, hexanoic acid exhibits antimicrobial properties and can act as a natural preservative against certain microorganisms.
Q: What are the benefits of caproic acid?
A: Hexanoic acid has potential benefits in various applications, including fragrance and flavoring, pharmaceuticals, and as a precursor for the production of other chemicals.
Q: What is the base of caproic acid?
A: Hexanoic acid does not have a specific base; it is an acid itself, belonging to the carboxylic acid group.