Hexanoic acid
CAS 142-62-1
EC 205-550-7
Formula C6H12O2
MW 116.16 g/mol
Organic Acids Food & NutritionPharmaceuticals & HealthcarePersonal Care & Cosmetics Flavoring & AcidulantCatalysisEmulsification & DispersionPreservation & BiocidepH Regulation & Buffering
Description
Hexanoic acid (CAS 142-62-1) is a six-carbon saturated fatty acid occurring naturally in animal fats and certain plant oils. It is also known as hexoic acid and carries the FEMA designation 2559. In the fatty acid shorthand system it is referenced as C6:0 or 6:0.
In food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, hexanoic acid functions as a pH buffer and acidulant, where its pKa of 4.85 makes it effective for controlling microbial growth in emulsified systems. It also serves as a catalyst precursor in esterification reactions and as a flavorant, contributing characteristic short-chain fatty acid notes at controlled concentrations.
Hexanoic acid is supplied in food-grade (FCC-compliant) and pharmaceutical-grade (Ph.Eur.) specifications, supporting procurement across regulated industries. The substance is registered under REACH and listed in the EINECS registry under EC 205-550-7. Standard packaging includes drums and IBC containers, with documentation available for EU food-contact and cosmetic applications.
In food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, hexanoic acid functions as a pH buffer and acidulant, where its pKa of 4.85 makes it effective for controlling microbial growth in emulsified systems. It also serves as a catalyst precursor in esterification reactions and as a flavorant, contributing characteristic short-chain fatty acid notes at controlled concentrations.
Hexanoic acid is supplied in food-grade (FCC-compliant) and pharmaceutical-grade (Ph.Eur.) specifications, supporting procurement across regulated industries. The substance is registered under REACH and listed in the EINECS registry under EC 205-550-7. Standard packaging includes drums and IBC containers, with documentation available for EU food-contact and cosmetic applications.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -3.4 °C |
| Boiling Point | 205.8 °C |
| Density | 0.929 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Flash Point | 220 °F |
| Appearance | colourless liquid |
| Color | Clear colorless to light yellow |
| Odor | at 10.00 % in propylene glycol. sour fatty sweat cheese |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 1.1 g/100 mL (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.18 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.4161(lit.) |
| pH | 4 (1g/l, H2O, 20℃) |
| Log P | 1.92 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Danger GHS05 GHS06 GHS07
H
H311H314H318H332
P
P260P261P262P264P270P271P280P316P317P321P363P405P501P264+P265P302+P352P304+P340P361+P364P301+P330+P331P302+P361+P354P305+P354+P338
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29159000 |
| UN Number | 2829 |
| ADR Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Storage Class | 8A - Combustible corrosive hazardous materials |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
6:0C6:0Hexoatecaproic acidHEXOIC ACID
Related Products
Raw Materials
Derivatives
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