Isobutyric acid (CAS 79-31-2) is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It has a basic structure consisting of a carboxylic acid group attached to a methyl group and an isopropyl group. Isobutyric acid is soluble in water to a limited extent, and it is miscible with organic solvents such as ethanol and ether. The physical properties of isobutyric acid include a boiling point of 154.7°C, a melting point of -45.5°C, and a density of 0.968 g/cm3.
Applicable Fields
Flavor and Fragrance Industry: Isobutyric acid is commonly used as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry. It provides a fruity or cheesy aroma and taste to various products. The mechanism of action involves interacting with taste and odor receptors in the human sensory system.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Isobutyric acid is utilized in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds. It serves as a building block for the production of drugs such as ibuprofen and valproic acid. The mechanism involves incorporating isobutyric acid into the molecular structure of the desired pharmaceutical compound.
Chemical Industry: Isobutyric acid finds application as a raw material in the production of other chemicals. It is used in the synthesis of esters, which are widely employed as solvents, flavoring agents, and fragrance ingredients. The mechanism involves reacting isobutyric acid with alcohols to form esters.
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool, dry place.