Ethyl Octanoate comes from a blend of ethanol and octanoic acid, forming a clear liquid that brings a fruity aroma, often linked to the scent of pineapple or pear. The molecular formula reads as C10H20O2, and its structure sets it apart from many other esters thanks to its long, unbranched carbon chain and the presence of an ethyl functional group. This gives the compound a light, pleasant scent, which explains its use in flavors and fragrances. Its appearance usually ranges from a colorless to a slightly pale yellow liquid, with a density of about 0.87 grams per cubic centimeter at 20°C, making it lighter than water. The HS Code falls under 2915.39, tying it into the broader class of saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid esters for regulation and trade purposes.
Ethyl Octanoate stays stable at room temperature, but it does not mix with water, holding onto its hydrophobic nature. Its boiling point is around 208°C, so it lasts through high temperatures before it evaporates, which makes it useful for flavorings in foods that undergo heat processing. The liquid strikes a balance between volatility and permanence, so the fruity character persists without being fleeting. This compound can turn into vapor under the right conditions, which creates risks if used in large-scale applications without proper ventilation. Some manufacturers present it in liquid form, but flake and powder forms sometimes show up for specialized uses where storage or mixing convenience matters. It dissolves well in ethanol, ether, and most organic solvents, but almost not at all in water. Proper storage means avoiding high heat or direct sunlight, as both can break down the ester, producing unpleasant odors or even making the material hazardous.
Ethyl Octanoate plays a quiet but important role in everyday products. The food industry relies on it to punch up fruit flavors in beverages, candies, and bakery goods. Its grape and pear-like notes mean it can add freshness and complexity to artificial fruit flavor profiles. Winemakers know its contribution to the bouquet in various wines, since fermentation by-products naturally include small amounts of Ethyl Octanoate, which add to a finished wine’s aroma. Perfume and personal care businesses make use of its aromatic profile in everything from body sprays to lotions, especially those aiming for uplifting or tropical signatures. In chemical synthesis, Ethyl Octanoate stands as an intermediate for producing other specialty esters and compounds. Its effectiveness in each case depends on careful handling, as even a small amount creates a noticeable shift in flavor or scent.
Looking at the structure, Ethyl Octanoate features a straight octanoic (caprylic) acid backbone linked to an ethyl group via an ester bond. The long, saturated chain makes the molecule notably nonpolar, which explains why it reacts poorly with water but blends well with oils and other nonpolar solvents. In technical specifications, manufacturers typically offer purity levels above 98%, as lower purity risks tainting the intended taste or scent. The density sits right below water, contributing to its tendency to float if spilled. Its liquid form asks for leak-proof, tightly sealed storage, usually in glass or high-grade plastic. Some companies offer specific gravity, refractive index, or acid value data, as customers in the fragrance and food ingredient sectors use these benchmarks to assure consistency.
Anyone working with Ethyl Octanoate in a lab or factory ought to know the risks. Even though it comes from substances found in foods, the pure material can irritate skin and eyes because of its chemical makeup. If handled without gloves or goggles, contact leads to discomfort and potential allergic reactions. Breathing in concentrated fumes over long periods may cause respiratory irritation. Storage away from flames and intense heat protects against ignition, since many esters—particularly volatile varieties—pose some level of fire hazard. Simple precautions, like using it in a well-ventilated space and securing lids, go a long way. Disposal follows chemical waste protocols to keep the substance out of water systems and the broader environment. From experience in lab settings, even minor spills left unchecked develop a strong odor, which distracts workers and affects workplace comfort. Labeling all containers reduces confusion, since the clear liquid blends in among many organics, and misidentification leads to waste or even cross-contamination.
The molecular mass of Ethyl Octanoate runs at roughly 172.26 g/mol, and anyone using it for formulation work refers to this property when calculating recipes and measuring out raw ingredients. Advanced users sometimes request chromatographic profiles—gas chromatography measures purity and confirms identity for high-spec industries, especially in regulated areas like food safety or pharmaceuticals. The functional groups present lead to signature signals in spectroscopic analysis, making it easy to detect trace contaminants or confirm no unwanted by-products have formed during synthesis. In perfumery and food science, a precise assay of its concentration determines batch compliance and product quality, ensuring consumers get what companies promise on the label.
Reducing risks starts with proper education. Staff and researchers who know the basics of organic compounds practice safer handling because they recognize both the utility and the hazard. Clear workspaces, dedicated utensils, and prompt cleanup keep accidental exposure to a minimum. Relying on reputable suppliers helps, as poorly produced Ethyl Octanoate sometimes contains odd-smelling leftovers from inadequate processing. Testing every new delivery before use, whether through in-house quality control or third-party labs, adds assurance that the liquid matches its technical data sheet. In addition, companies that use large quantities should invest in spill kits, ventilation upgrades, and up-to-date training for their teams. Even as the material’s uses increase in global food and fragrance markets, keeping storage and usage practices up to standard cuts down on accidents or lost product. Traceability through well-documented chain-of-custody systems and digital inventory tracking further boosts confidence in both safety and compliance.
Chemical Name: Ethyl Octanoate
Molecular Formula: C10H20O2
Molecular Weight: 172.26 g/mol
Density: Approx. 0.87 g/cm³ (20°C)
Boiling Point: 208°C
Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
HS Code: 2915.39
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol and organic solvents
Main Hazards: Irritation, volatility, flammability
Key Uses: Flavors, fragrances, wine aroma, chemical synthesis
