Decanoic acid

Decanoic acid, also known as capric acid, is a saturated fatty acid. Its formula is CH3(CH2)8COOH. Salts and esters of decanoic acid are called decanoates or "caprates". The term capric acid arises from the Latin "capric" which pertains to goats due to their olfactory similarities.

Chemical Properties

Decanoic acid is a white crystalline solid with a rancid odor. It is slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in ethanol, ether, and chloroform. The acid is a medium strong acid, stronger than acetic acid, but weaker than sulfuric acid.

Natural Occurrence

Decanoic acid occurs naturally in coconut oil (about 10%) and palm kernel oil (about 4%), otherwise, it is uncommon in typical seed oils. It is found in the milk of various mammals and to a lesser extent in other animal fats.

Uses

Decanoic acid is used in the creation of esters for artificial fruit flavors and perfumes. It is also used as an intermediate in chemical syntheses. It is used in organic synthesis and industrially in the manufacture of perfumes, lubricants, greases, rubber, dyes, plastics, food additives and pharmaceuticals.

Health Effects

Decanoic acid's sodium salt, sodium decanoate, is often used as an active ingredient in soap making and cleaning supplies.

See Also

• Fatty acid
• Coconut oil
• Palm kernel oil
• Sodium decanoate

References

Decanoic acid Resources
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