Title: Butyric Acid
CAS Registry Number: 107-92-6
CAS Name: Butanoic acid
Additional Names: n-butyric acid; ethylacetic acid
Molecular Formula: C4H8O2
Molecular Weight: 88.11
Percent Composition: C 54.53%, H 9.15%, O 36.32%
Line Formula: CH3CH2CH2COOH
Literature References: Discovered by Lieben and Rossi in 1869. Present in butter as an ester to the extent of 4-5%. Obtained by suitable fermentation of carbohydrates; prepn from n-propanol + CO at 200 atm in the presence of Ni(CO)4 and NiI2: Reppe et al., Ann. 582, 83 (1953); lab prepn from ethylmalonic acid: Gattermann-Wieland, Praxis des Organischen Chemikers (de Gruyter, Berlin, 40th ed., 1961) p 221. Toxicity study: Smyth et al., Arch. Ind. Hyg. Occup. Med. 10, 61 (1954).
Properties: Oily liq; unpleasant, rancid odor. d420 0.959. bp 163.5°. mp -7.9°. nD20 1.3991. Flash pt, closed cup: 170°F (77°C). Neutralization value 636.79. Miscible with water, alcohol, ether. The calcium salt of this acid is less soluble in hot than in cold water (difference from isobutyric acid). LD50 orally in rats: 8.79 g/kg (Smyth).
Melting point: mp -7.9°
Boiling point: bp 163.5°
Flash point: Flash pt, closed cup: 170°F (77°C)
Index of refraction: nD20 1.3991
Density: d420 0.959
Toxicity data: LD50 orally in rats: 8.79 g/kg (Smyth)
Derivative Type: Magnesium salt
Additional Names: Magnesium butyrate
Molecular Formula: C8H14MgO4
Molecular Weight: 198.50
Percent Composition: C 48.41%, H 7.11%, Mg 12.24%, O 32.24%
Properties: Deliquesc leaflets. Sol in water. Keep well closed.
Use: Manuf of esters, some of which serve as bases of artificial flavoring ingredients of certain liqueurs, soda-water syrups, candies; also for varnishes; as decalcifier of hides. |