Methyl hexanoate

Methyl hexanoate is the fatty acid methyl ester of hexanoic acid (caproic acid), a colourless liquid organic compound with the chemical formula CH
3−(CH
2)
4−COO−CH
3. It is found naturally in many foods and has a role as a plant metabolite. It can also be found in the cytoplasm of cells.[1]

Methyl hexanoate
Names
IUPAC name
Methyl hexanoate
Systematic IUPAC name
Methyl hexanoate
Other names
  • Methyl caproate
  • Methyl hexanate
Identifiers
3D model (JSmol)
1744683
ChEBI
ECHA InfoCard 100.003.115
EC Number
  • 203-425-1
UNII
UN number 1993
Properties[1]
C7H14O2
Molar mass 130.187 g·mol−1
Density 0.8846
Melting point −71.0 °C (−95.8 °F; 202.2 K)
Boiling point 149.5 °C (301.1 °F; 422.6 K)
1.33 mg/mL at 20 °C
Solubility ethanol
1.4049
Related compounds
Related compounds
 Ethyl hexanoate, Propyl hexanoate, Butyl hexanoate

Allyl hexanoate

Hazards
GHS pictograms
GHS Signal word Warning
H226
P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P280, P303+361+353, P370+378, P403+235, P501
Flash point 73 °C; 163 °F; 346 K
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
Infobox references

Methyl hexanoate is produced industrially for use as a flavouring agent.[2][3] It can also be used as perfume for a pineapple smell.[4]

Production

Methyl hexanoate is produced in multi-tonne quantities for use as a flavouring agent.[3] It is made by combining Methanol with Hexanoic acid . Naturally,plants metabolize a chemicalto methyl hexanoate.

Uses

Methyl hexanoate is found naturally in foods like potatoes, tomatoes and cheese and is a constituent of some alcoholic beverages.[2] It can be used to mimic the flavor of pineapple like its related ester ethyl hexanoate.[4]

Safety

The LD50 for rats is more than 5 g/kg,[1] indicating low toxicity. When heated to decomposition, methyl hexanoate emits toxic fumes. It can cause burns.

Flammability

Methyl hexanoate is flammable. It has a flash point of 163 °F (73 °C).[1]

See also

References
  1. "Methyl hexanoate". PubChem. Retrieved 12 August 2020.
  2. Maarse, Henk (29 March 1991). Volatile Compounds in Foods and Beverages. ISBN 978-0824783907.
  3. "Methyl hexanoate – Substance Information". European Chemicals Agency. Retrieved 12 August 2020.
  4. "Methyl hexanoate". The Good Scents Company. Retrieved 15 August 2020.


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