Hexanoic Acid
Caproic Acid, C6 Fatty Acid, n-Hexanoic Acid.
- CAS
- 142-62-1
- EC
- 205-550-7
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Animal Nutrition
Hexanoic Acid (CAS 142-62-1) is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid, a clear colorless to light yellow liquid with a pungent odor, used as an intermediate for flavor and fragrance esters and as an antimicrobial acidifier in animal feed. This High Purity oily liquid provides a characteristic pungent profile essential for creating dairy and fruity esters.
In the agricultural sector, it serves as a potent antimicrobial agent and animal feed preservative, effectively inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens. Its Medium Chain Fatty Acid (MCFA) profile makes it highly bioavailable in nutritional applications.
Commercially, it is a critical building block for the production of hexyl phenols and specialty metalworking lubricants. It maintains excellent chemical stability under standard storage conditions and serves as a precursor to diverse industrial chemicals.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C6H12O2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 116.16 g/mol |
| Appearance | colourless liquid |
| Form | Liquid |
| Color | Clear colorless to light yellow |
| Odor | at 10.00 % in propylene glycol. sour fatty sweat cheese |
| Melting point | -3.4 °C |
| Boiling point | 205.8 °C |
| Density | 0.929 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Water solubility | 1.1 g/100 mL (20 °C) |
| Flash point | 220 °F |
| pH | 4 (1g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Acute toxicity, Irritant / harmful |
| HS code | 29159000 |
| Grades available | Food Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Hexanoic Acid
Applications
- Flavor Synthesis: Precursor for ethyl hexanoate and other esters used in the food industry for pineapple and berry notes.
- Feed Additives: Employed as an acidifier in animal nutrition to improve gut health and feed preservation.
- Metalworking Fluids: Used to produce hexyl derivatives that function as corrosion inhibitors and lubricity additives.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Corrosive to skin and eyes. Ensure the use of Acid-Resistant Gloves, Safety Goggles, and Proper Ventilation to avoid vapor inhalation.
Packaging
180 kg Plastic Drums or 900 kg IBC Tanks.