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Butyl lactate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C7H14O3
CAS number
138-22-7
IUPAC name
butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate
State
State

At room temperature, butyl lactate is typically in the liquid state. Its viscosity is moderate, which may make it appear slightly oily.

Melting point (Celsius)
-19.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
254.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
186.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
459.65
General information
Molecular weight
146.19g/mol
Molar mass
146.1880g/mol
Density
1.0143g/cm3
Appearence

Butyl lactate is a colorless liquid that has a fruity odor. It is often used as a solvent due to its distinct smell and solvent properties. The liquid is clear and can be slightly oily to touch.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate

Butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate, known for its fruity aroma, presents interesting solubility characteristics that are essential for its various applications. Its solubility can be understood through several key points:

  • Polar Nature: Being a polar compound due to the hydroxyl group (-OH), butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate exhibits solubility in polar solvents.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It is soluble in water, although to a moderate extent, making it versatile for formulations where water solubility is beneficial.
  • Organic Solvents: The compound is also soluble in a variety of organic solvents, such as ethanol, acetone, and other alcohols, enhancing its utility in organic reactions and applications.
  • Temperature Effect: Like many organic compounds, solubility can increase with temperature; thus, heating the solvent may improve the dissolution of butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate.

In practical terms, this solubility means that butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate can be effectively used in:

  1. The fragrance industry, due to its compatibility with both polar and non-polar solvents.
  2. Cosmetic formulations where a balance of water and oil solubility is desired.
  3. Food flavoring applications offering versatility in aqueous and oil-based systems.

Overall, the solubility of butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate makes it a valuable compound in various sectors. Its ability to dissolve in different media not only enhances its functionality but also opens up avenues for innovative applications!

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Butyl 2-Hydroxypropanoate

Butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate, commonly known as an ester, belongs to a family of compounds that are renowned for their versatility and wide range of applications. This compound is produced through the esterification of butanol and lactic acid, reflecting not just its functional groups but also its potential uses in various fields.

Key Characteristics and Applications

  • Flavoring Agent: Butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is often appreciated for its fruity aroma, making it a popular choice in the food industry as a flavoring agent and in perfumes.
  • Solvent Properties: Due to its polar nature, it serves effectively as a solvent in coatings, paints, and adhesives, providing reliable performance in various formulations.
  • Biodegradable Nature: One of the standout features of this compound is its environmental friendliness. It is biodegradable, which is increasingly important in today's push for sustainable chemistry.
  • Cosmetic Uses: With its moisturizing properties, butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is often utilized in cosmetic formulations, enhancing the texture and application of products.

As a student of chemistry, understanding compounds like butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate can be enlightening. Its dual role as both a fragrance and a functional chemical elucidates how simple molecules can have broad implications across industries.

A Quote to Ponder

"Chemistry is the study of matter, but I prefer to see it as the study of change." – Richard P. Feynman

In the case of butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate, this change is profoundly positive, emphasizing how chemical innovations can enhance our everyday lives!

Synonyms
BUTYL LACTATE
Butyl 2-hydroxypropanoate
138-22-7
n-Butyl lactate
Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, butyl ester
Lactic acid, butyl ester
Butyllactate
2-Hydroxypropanoic acid butyl ester
Butyl lactate (natural)
Butyl L-lactate
Butylester kyseliny mlecne
Butyl alpha-hydroxypropionate
FEMA No. 2205
(+/-)-Butyl lactate
Butyl 2-Hydroxypropionate
Lactic acid n-butyl ester
NSC 6533
EINECS 205-316-4
UNII-0UI63W814U
BRN 1721597
DTXSID7042196
AI3-00397
HSDB 7905
Lactic acid-butyl ester
NSC-6533
BUTYL LACTATE [FHFI]
Butyl .alpha.-hydroxypropionate
DTXCID5022196
FEMA 2205
MRABAEUHTLLEML-UHFFFAOYSA-
(+/-)-N-BUTYL LACTATE
0UI63W814U
4-03-00-00649 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
2-Hydroxy-butyl ester(2S)-Propanoic acid
.ALPHA.-HYDROXYPROPIONIC ACID BUTYL ESTER
Butyl (S)-2-hydroxypropionate
Butylester kyseliny mlecne [Czech]
nButyl lactate
1-butyl lactate
DL-butyl lactate
Butyl lactic acid
MFCD00004519
Butyl lactate, 98%
Butyl 2hydroxypropanoate
Butyl2-hydroxypropanoate
Lactic Acid Butyl Ester
Butyl alphahydroxypropionate
n-Butyl lactate (ACGIH)
Lactic acid, n-butyl ester
SCHEMBL26742
BUTYL LACTATE [INCI]
Butyl alpha -hydroxypropionate
WLN: QY1 & VO4
BUTYL A-HYDROXYPROPIONATE
CHEMBL3183988
NSC6533
CHEBI:169137
2Hydroxypropanoic acid butyl ester
Tox21_301349
2-Hydroxypropanoic acid, butyl ester
AKOS015903784
alpha-hydroxypropionic acid butyl ester
CS-W018230
N-BUTYL LACTATE (BUTYL LACTATE)
NCGC00255732-01
BS-15000
CAS-138-22-7
DB-003609
DB-069012
L0002
NS00001619
D70202
Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, butyl ester (9CI)
Q11370588
205-316-4
475096-62-9