It is one of the acids primarily responsible for the characteristic "soo" odor of mutton. The analogue 4-Ethyloctanoic acid (found in Virginia tobacco and Costus root oil) has a similar goaty odor; this analog has the lowest threshold of all fatty acids, at 1.8 ppm.
This material is utilized in the following products: pH regulators, water treatment solutions, and laboratory chemicals. This substance is used in industry to produce another chemical (intermediates are used). This material is utilized in the manufacturing of chemicals.
1. IUPAC Name: 4-Methyloctanoic acid
2. Molecular Formula: C9H18O2
3. Molecular Weight: 158.24 g/mol
4. Structure: The structure consists of an eight-carbon chain with a carboxylic acid (COOH) group attached to the first carbon and a methyl (CH3) group attached to the fourth carbon.
5. Functional Groups:
- Carboxylic acid group (-COOH)
- Alkyl chain with a methyl branch
6. Reactivity:
- Like other carboxylic acids, It can participate in typical acid-base reactions.
- It can form esters and amides through reactions with alcohols and amines, respectively.
- It can undergo reduction to form the corresponding alcohol (4-methyl octanol).
1. Appearance: It is typically a colorless to pale yellow liquid or solid, depending on temperature.
2. Odor: It may have a characteristic odor, often described as fatty or similar to rancid butter.
3. Boiling Point: Approximately 260-265 °C (500-509 °F)
4. Melting Point: Typically around 15-20 °C (59-68 °F), but the exact value can vary.
5. Density: Approximately 0.91 g/cm³ at 25 °C
6. Solubility:
- Soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform.
- Slightly soluble in water due to the hydrophobic alkyl chain.
7. pKa: The pKa of carboxylic acids is generally around 4.8-5.0, so it is expected to be similar.
8. Vapor Pressure: Low at room temperature, indicating low volatility.
1. Hazards:
- May cause skin and eye irritation upon contact.
- Inhalation of vapors may cause respiratory irritation.
2. Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from incompatible substances like strong oxidizing agents.
These properties make The Compound a compound of interest in various industrial and chemical applications, particularly in the synthesis of esters and other derivatives.
To purchase the compound, you can explore a variety of chemical suppliers and exporters that specialize in providing chemicals for industrial, research, and commercial purposes. Below are some suppliers that might have that compound in their inventory:
Potential Suppliers:
To buy 4-methyl octanoic acid you need a supplier.
suppliers of 4-methyl octanoic acid
1. Chemical Bull
- Website: Chemical Bull
- Products: They offer a wide range of chemicals, including organic and inorganic compounds. You can contact them directly for the availability and pricing of 4-methyl octanoic acid.
2. Sigma-Aldrich (Merck)
- Website: Sigma-Aldrich
- Products: Sigma-Aldrich is a well-known supplier of chemicals for laboratory and industrial use. They often have a comprehensive catalog of specialty chemicals.
3. TCI Chemicals
- Website: TCI Chemicals
- Products: TCI Chemicals provides a wide variety of organic and inorganic chemicals. Check their catalog or contact them for specific inquiries about The Compound.
4. Alfa Aesar (Thermo Fisher Scientific)
- Website: Alfa Aesar
- Products: A leading supplier of research chemicals, metals, and materials. They often stock specialized chemicals and reagents.
5. Acros Organics
- Website: Acros Organics
- Products: Acros Organics provides high-purity organic and inorganic compounds, including acids, bases, and solvents.
6. Santa Cruz Biotechnology
- Website: Santa Cruz Biotechnology
- Products: Known for supplying biochemicals and reagents, they may also offer specialty chemicals like The Compound.
1. Visit the Supplier's Website: Start by visiting the websites of the suppliers listed above. Use their search functionality to look for the compound.
2. Check Product Availability: Confirm if they have the compound in stock. Some websites might list the chemical directly, while others may require you to request a quote.
3. Request a Quote: If the product is not listed with a price, contact the supplier directly through their website's contact form, email, or phone number to request a quote. Provide details such as the quantity required and your location.
4. Compare Prices and Terms: Compare prices, shipping options, and terms of sale from different suppliers to ensure you get the best deal.
5. Place an Order: Once you’ve selected a supplier, follow their process to place an order. This may involve creating an account, providing shipping and billing information, and confirming payment methods.
By following these steps and exploring the listed suppliers, you should be able to find and purchase the compound for your needs.
- Aroma Compounds: The compound can be used in the synthesis of esters and other derivatives that have desirable aromatic properties. These compounds are valuable in the creation of flavors and fragrances, providing specific notes that are used in perfumes, cosmetics, and food products.
- Synthesis of Other Compounds: It serves as a useful intermediate in organic synthesis. Its structure allows it to be modified into a variety of other chemical compounds, making it versatile for different industrial applications.
- Drug Development: Carboxylic acids, including the compound, are often used in the development of pharmaceuticals. They can be functionalized to create active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with specific therapeutic effects.
- Polymer Production: The acid can be used in the production of polymers and resins. Its properties allow it to be a building block in the synthesis of various materials with desired mechanical and chemical properties.
- Pesticides and Herbicides: They can be used in the development of agrochemicals, including certain pesticides and herbicides, that help protect crops from pests and diseases.
- Biochemical Research: The Compound can be used as a reference compound or reagent in biochemical research. It helps in studying enzyme interactions, metabolic pathways, and other biochemical processes.
- Lubricants and Surfactants: Its derivatives can be used in the formulation of lubricants and surfactants, which are essential in various industrial processes to reduce friction, enhance cleaning, and improve surface properties.
- Flavor Enhancer: In small amounts, it can be used to enhance the flavor profile of certain food products, providing a nuanced taste that can be appealing in gourmet and specialty foods.
- Versatility: The ability to modify and use 4-methyl octanoic acid in diverse applications highlights its versatility.
- Economic Value: Its use in high-value industries like pharmaceuticals and fragrances adds significant economic value.
- Functional Properties: The chemical and physical properties of the compound make it suitable for creating products with specific desired properties, whether it's stability, reactivity, or sensory characteristics.
These benefits make the compound a valuable compound in multiple domains, supporting advancements in technology, health, and industry.
1. Odor:
- The Compound has an unpleasant odor, often described as fatty or rancid. This can be problematic in handling and storage, and may require special ventilation or odor control measures.
2. Solubility Issues:
- It is only slightly soluble in water due to its hydrophobic alkyl chain, which can limit its use in aqueous systems and necessitate the use of organic solvents.
3. Skin and Eye Irritation:
- Contact with the compound can irritate the skin and eyes. This necessitates the use of protective gear and careful handling procedures to prevent exposure.
4. Volatility:
- Although it has a low vapor pressure, its volatility can still pose inhalation risks, particularly in poorly ventilated areas, requiring adequate ventilation systems to mitigate inhalation hazards.
5. Reactivity with Bases:
- As a carboxylic acid, it can react with bases to form salts and water, which may be a disadvantage in certain chemical processes where its acid functionality needs to be preserved.
6. Potential for Environmental Harm:
- If not properly managed, disposal of the compound can pose environmental risks. Its presence in water bodies can affect aquatic life due to its potential toxicity and bioaccumulation.
7. Limited Applications:
- The specific structure of the compound might limit its utility to certain niche applications, reducing its overall versatility compared to other carboxylic acids.
8. Handling and Storage:
- The requirement for careful handling and specific storage conditions (cool, dry place, away from oxidizing agents) can increase operational costs and complexity.
Understanding these disadvantages is important for the safe and efficient use of the compound in industrial and laboratory settings. Proper safety protocols and handling procedures can mitigate many of these risks.
4-Methyl octanoic acid is a versatile compound used in various industries, including flavor and fragrance, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and industrial applications. Its ability to participate in acid-base reactions and form esters and amides makes it valuable in organic synthesis. However, its strong odor, limited water solubility, and potential hazards require careful handling and storage. Despite these drawbacks, its benefits in creating aromatic compounds, pharmaceuticals, polymers, and agrochemicals are significant. By adhering to safety protocols, users can maximize its advantages while minimizing risks. Suppliers like Chemical Bull, Sigma-Aldrich, and others provide this compound for various needs.
