Ethyl heptanoate

Ethyl heptanoate, also known as ethyl enanthate, is an organic compound belonging to the class of compounds known as esters. Esters are organic compounds derived from acids in which at least one -OH (hydroxyl) group is replaced by an -O-alkyl (alkoxy) group. Ethyl heptanoate is formed by the esterification reaction between heptanoic acid and ethanol under the presence of an acid catalyst.

The chemical formula of ethyl heptanoate is C9H18O2, indicating it contains nine carbon atoms, eighteen hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. This compound is known for its fruity odor, making it a valuable ingredient in the flavor and fragrance industry. It is often used to impart a banana-like aroma in various food products and beverages, as well as in perfumes and cosmetics to add a fresh, fruity scent.

Properties

Ethyl heptanoate is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a characteristic fruity odor. It is slightly soluble in water, but it is well soluble in most organic solvents such as ethanol, diethyl ether, and chloroform. The boiling point of ethyl heptanoate is approximately 167-169°C, and its melting point is around -76°C.

Synthesis

The synthesis of ethyl heptanoate typically involves the esterification of heptanoic acid with ethanol. This reaction is usually catalyzed by an acid, such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid, to increase the reaction rate. The general reaction scheme is as follows:

Heptanoic acid + Ethanol → Ethyl heptanoate + Water

This reaction is an equilibrium reaction, and the yield of ethyl heptanoate can be increased by removing the water formed during the reaction or by using an excess of one of the reactants.

Applications

Ethyl heptanoate has a wide range of applications, primarily in the flavor and fragrance industry. Its fruity, banana-like aroma makes it a popular choice for flavoring food products, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and for adding fragrance to cosmetics and personal care products. Additionally, it is used in the synthesis of other chemical compounds and as a solvent in organic synthesis.

Safety

Like many organic esters, ethyl heptanoate is flammable and should be handled with care. It is also considered to be of low toxicity, but it can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon prolonged exposure. Proper safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), should be taken when handling this chemical.

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