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Butyl isobutyrate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H16O2
CAS number
97-88-1
IUPAC name
butyl 2-methylpropanoate
State
State

At room temperature, butyl isobutyrate is in a liquid state. It is often used in applications that take advantage of its pleasant smell, such as in fragrances and flavorings.

Melting point (Celsius)
-85.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
188.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
145.50
Boiling point (Kelvin)
418.65
General information
Molecular weight
144.21g/mol
Molar mass
144.2110g/mol
Density
0.8569g/cm3
Appearence

Butyl isobutyrate is a colorless liquid with a pleasant, fruity odor. It is typically transparent and does not have any color impurities under normal conditions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Butyl 2-Methylpropanoate

Butyl 2-methylpropanoate, with the chemical formula C7H14O2, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are important for its applications in various fields. This compound is an ester, which generally indicates moderate to good solubility tendencies in organic solvents.

Solubility in Different Solvents

Key points regarding the solubility of butyl 2-methylpropanoate include:

  • Non-polar Solubility: It is likely to be soluble in non-polar organic solvents such as hexane and methylene chloride.
  • Water Solubility: Due to its ester nature and the presence of a long hydrophobic carbon chain, it has limited solubility in water, indicative of the general behavior of many esters.
  • Alcohol Solvents: Moderate solubility can be expected in alcohols like ethanol and isopropanol, owing to potential hydrogen bonding between the functional groups.

Overall, the solubility of butyl 2-methylpropanoate can be summarized as follows:

  • Slightly soluble in water
  • Soluble in most organic solvents
  • Greater solubility in polar organic solvents

In conclusion, while butyl 2-methylpropanoate demonstrates limited water solubility, its ability to dissolve in a range of organic solvents makes it a versatile compound for various chemical applications. As with many esters, understanding its solubility properties is crucial for effective utilization.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Butyl 2-Methylpropanoate

Butyl 2-methylpropanoate, also known as butyl isobutyrate, is an intriguing ester that serves various purposes in both the chemical industry and everyday life. Here are some noteworthy aspects:

  • Flavor and Fragrance: This compound is commonly used as a flavoring agent in food products and a fragrance component in perfumes and cosmetics. Its pleasant fruity aroma is reminiscent of apples, making it a favorite in formulations aimed at enhancing sensory experiences.
  • Synthesis: The synthesis of butyl 2-methylpropanoate typically involves the reaction of 2-methylpropanoic acid with butanol through a process known as esterification. This reaction not only produces the ester but also releases water, highlighting the importance of catalyst presence in shifting equilibrium in favor of product formation.
  • Industrial Application: In addition to its use in flavors and fragrances, butyl 2-methylpropanoate is utilized as a solvent in paint and coating formulations, providing excellent properties for evaporative and film-forming abilities.
  • Sustainability: The renewable sources for the alcohol and acid constituents in the synthesis of butyl 2-methylpropanoate make it an attractive option from a sustainability perspective, emphasizing the shift towards greener chemistry practices.

Overall, butyl 2-methylpropanoate is more than just a simple ester; it exemplifies the intersection of chemistry and creativity, impacting products that we encounter in our daily lives.

Synonyms
Butyl isobutyrate
97-87-0
Butyl 2-methylpropanoate
Butyl isobutanoate
Propanoic acid, 2-methyl-, butyl ester
Isobutyric acid, butyl ester
n-Butyl isobutyrate
FEMA No. 2188
Butyl isobutyrate (natural)
UNII-PW9UJ5C0F3
EINECS 202-614-6
PW9UJ5C0F3
Isobutyric acid n-butyl ester
n-Butyl iso-butyrate
AI3-24261
Butyl ester of 2-methylpropanoic acid
BUTYL ISOBUTYRATE [FCC]
BUTYL ISOBUTYRATE [FHFI]
DTXSID9073888
Butyl isobutyrate; n-Butyl isobutyrate
BUTYLISOBUTYRATE
Isobutyric Acid Butyl Ester
Isobutyric acid, butyl ester (6CI,7CI,8CI)
MFCD00048773
Butyl 2methylpropanoate
Butyl 2-methylpropanoate #
SCHEMBL407053
Isobutyric acid n- butyl ester
DTXCID0049026
FEMA 2188
CHEBI:179935
2-methylpropanoic acid butyl ester
Propanoic acid, 2methyl, butyl ester
AKOS015839712
Butyl isobutyrate, natural, 97%, FG
Butyl isobutyrate, >=97%, FCC, FG
AS-77385
I0315
NS00012045
F72102
Q27286785
202-614-6