Decanoic

Decanoic acid, also known as capric acid, is a saturated monocarboxylic fatty acid with ten carbon atoms. Its chemical formula is C10H20O2 and it has a molecular weight of about 172.26 g/mol. It contains a carboxyl group at one end of a linear hydrocarbon chain and is part of the fatty acid series.

At room temperature decanoic acid is a waxy solid with a melting point around 31–32 °C. It has a strong, characteristic odor. It is poorly soluble in water but dissolves in many organic solvents. The acid exhibits behavior typical of fatty acids, with a pKa around 4.8, reflecting its acidity in aqueous solution.

Occurrence and production: Decanoic acid occurs naturally in trace amounts in various fats and oils, including dairy fats and coconut oil. Industrially, it is obtained from fats and oils through hydrolysis and subsequent processing, or derived via oxidation routes from esters. It is commonly isolated by distillation from natural fat fractions and then purified for use as needed.

Uses: Decanoic acid is employed as a starting material and intermediate in the synthesis of esters used in flavors and fragrances. It serves as a precursor for lubricants, plasticizers, and surfactants, and its esters are used in cosmetics and personal care products for emollient or scent-related functions. It can also be converted to salts (such as decanoates) for pharmaceutical and other formulation uses.

Safety: Concentrated decanoic acid can irritate skin and eyes and should be handled with appropriate precautions. Inhalation or ingestion of large amounts may be harmful. It is flammable under certain conditions and should be stored away from ignition sources.

See also: Hexanoic (caproic) acid, Octanoic (caprylic) acid, Lauric (dodecanoic) acid.