Caproic acid

Caproic acid

Hexanoic Acid; n-Hexanoic Acid; 1-Hexanoic Acid

CAS 142-62-1

Chemical Formula C6H12O2

Molecular Weight 116.16 g/mol

Caproic acid, also called hexanoic acid, is a medium-chain fatty acid composed of six carbon atoms. It has a sharp, rancid odor reminiscent of goats, which is why its name is derived from "caper," the Latin word for goat. This fatty acid is naturally present in various animal fats and oils, including dairy products like butter and cheese, and also occurs in small amounts in coconut oil and palm oil. Despite its strong smell, it has a long history of being found in natural environments like sweat and the milk of ruminant animals.

Industrial Uses

1. Chemical Synthesis

  • Surfactant: In industrial applications, caproic acid functions as a surfactant, aiding in the emulsification and dispersion of other substances.
  • Plasticizers: It is utilized in the production of plasticizers, which enhance the flexibility and workability of plastics.
  • Solvent: Caproic acid can serve as a solvent in various chemical processes, aiding in the dissolution of other compounds.

2. Agrochemicals

  • Herbicide Formulation: Caproic acid can be used as a surfactant in herbicide formulations, enhancing the effectiveness of active ingredients.
  • Soil Conditioner: It may serve as a soil conditioner, promoting beneficial microbial activity and improving soil structure.

3. Personal Care

  • Anti-Aging Products: In anti-aging formulations, caproic acid can help improve skin texture and elasticity.
  • Deodorant Component: Its properties may be beneficial in formulating deodorants, contributing to odor control.

4. Food & Beverage 

  • Emulsifying Agent: In emulsified products like mayonnaise and salad dressings, caproic acid can help maintain stability and prevent separation.
  • Flavor Masking: It may be used to mask undesirable flavors in certain food products, enhancing overall palatability.

5. Fabric Solutions

  • Color Brightening Agent: Caproic acid may enhance the brightness of colored textiles and fabrics.
  • Anti-Wrinkle Agent: It can be incorporated into formulations to provide anti-wrinkle properties in fabrics.
  • Textile Softener: It may be used in fabric softeners to enhance the softness and feel of textiles.
  • Stain-Resistant Finishing Agent: Caproic acid can contribute to the development of stain-resistant finishes for textiles.

6. Pharmaceuticals

  • Solvent in Drug Formulations: Caproic acid can serve as a solvent for active pharmaceutical ingredients, aiding in the formulation of liquid medications.
  • Stabilizer for Vaccines: It may be included in vaccine formulations to stabilize components and enhance efficacy.

Specifications

Assay ≥ 99%
Appearance Clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid
Odor Unpleasant, rancid, goat-like odor
Boiling Point 205-208°C
Melting Point -3.4°C
Density 0.927 g/cm³
Solubility Soluble in alcohol, ether; slightly soluble in water
Viscosity 3.64 mPa·s at 20°C
Flash Point 95°C (Closed Cup)

Hazard Symbols

Corrosives
Irritants/Sensitisers/Other Hazards

FAQs

1. What is the current price of  Caproic acid in India ?
The price of  Caproic acid can vary based on factors such as purity, quantity, etc. For the most accurate and competitive pricing, please contact us at +91.979 979 2121  directly for a customized quote tailored to your needs.

2. Where can I buy Caproic acid in India ?
You can purchase Caproic acid from MULTICHEM, a leading importer with a reputation for quality and reliability. We provide convenient options for bulk orders and direct shipments across India. For more details on how to place an order, please visit our website or contact our sales team.

3. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for Caproic acid?
Our minimum order quantity (MOQ) for Caproic acid is designed to cater to both small-scale and large-scale needs. The MOQ depends on the packing size of the product which could range from 25 kg to 250kg.

4. How can I ensure the quality of Caproic acid supplied by Multichem?
We adhere to stringent quality control processes to ensure that our products meet the highest standards of purity and effectiveness. They undergo rigorous testing and quality checks to guarantee that they comply with industry specifications. We provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with every shipment to ensure transparency and quality assurance.