Ethyl octanoate

ethyl_octanoate_structure.svg

Ethyl octanoate is an ester formed from the reaction of ethanol and octanoic acid. It is commonly found in various fruits and alcoholic beverages, contributing to their aroma and flavor profiles.

Chemical Properties

Ethyl octanoate has the chemical formula C₁₀H₂₀O₂. It is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor, often described as having a pineapple or pear-like scent. The molecular weight of ethyl octanoate is 172.26 g/mol.

Synthesis

Ethyl octanoate is synthesized through an esterification reaction, where ethanol reacts with octanoic acid in the presence of an acid catalyst. The general reaction is as follows:

C₂H₅OH + C₈H₁₆O₂ → C₁₀H₂₀O₂ + H₂O

Occurrence

Ethyl octanoate is naturally present in various fruits such as apples, bananas, and pineapples. It is also found in wine and other fermented beverages, where it contributes to the overall bouquet and flavor profile.

Applications

Ethyl octanoate is widely used in the food industry as a flavoring agent due to its pleasant fruity aroma. It is also utilized in the fragrance industry for the formulation of perfumes and other scented products.

Safety and Handling

Ethyl octanoate should be handled with care, as it can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. It is recommended to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling this chemical.

Related Pages

• Ester
• Ethanol
• Octanoic acid
• Aroma
• Flavor
• Fermentation
• Wine