Caproic acid

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Synonym(s)

caproic acid (INCI); n-Hexanoic acid; Pentanecarboxylic acid

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Caproic acid, a saturated fatty acid (monocarboxylic acid) is an oily, foul-smelling liquid that is colourless at room temperature and smells like goat (from (lat.) capra or caper for goat, also known as billy goat).

The saturated acid has the molecular formula C6H12O2. It is insoluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents like ethanol or ether.

Caproic acid occurs as glycerol ester in butter; the acid is then formed during butyric acid fermentation. Caproic acid is used for the synthesis of fruit flavors by esterification.

Caproic acid, the INCI name for caproic acid, is used as emulsifier in cosmetic products.

The salts/esters of caproic acid are called caprates, caproates or hexanoates.

Authors

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Author: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer