Methyl butyrate
Description
Methyl butyrate (CAS 623-42-7), also recognized in flavor trade as FEMA 2693, is a fruit-forward ester used primarily as a flavoring agent and fragrance ingredient. Its characteristic apple and pineapple profile makes it a target compound for food technologists.
Fragrance formulators sourcing aroma chemicals at scale utilize this compound for its distinct olfactory properties. In food and beverage manufacturing, it is used to build or enhance tropical and orchard fruit flavor profiles in confectionery and dairy products.
Fragrance houses incorporate it into personal care formulations including shampoos, lotions, and soaps where a fresh, fruity top note is required. It provides a reliable aromatic base for various consumer goods.
In lubricant and metalworking formulations, it functions as a synthetic ester base or additive component where controlled viscosity and lubricity are needed. This versatility makes it valuable across multiple industrial sectors.
It also serves as a solvent or carrier in specialty chemical processing where ester-based media are preferred. The chemical stability of the compound allows for consistent performance in complex manufacturing environments.
The product is supplied as a clear, mobile liquid in drum and IBC quantities suited to industrial procurement volumes. Food-grade material conforming to FEMA 2693 specifications is the standard commercial form for buyers.
Technical-grade material is available for lubricant and industrial applications where flavor-grade certification is not required. We ensure all shipments meet rigorous quality benchmarks for purity and performance in every batch.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -85.8 °C |
| Boiling Point | 102.8 °C @ Press: 760 Torr |
| Density | 0.8984 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Flash Point | 53 °F |
| Appearance | colourless liquid |
| Color | Clear colorless to very slightly yellow |
| Odor | at 10.00 % in dipropylene glycol. fruity apple sweet banana pineapple |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | Slightly soluble in water. |
| Vapor Pressure | 40 mm Hg ( 30 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.385(lit.) |
| Log P | 1.24 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29156000 |
| UN Number | 1237 |
| ADR Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | II |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Documentation
Other Names
n-butyric acid methyl ester|methyl n-butyrate|methyl n-butanoate|methyl ester of butanoic acid|methyl butanoate|butyric acid, methyl ester|butanoic acid, methyl ester
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