Butyric Acid

Butyric Acid (systematic name: butanoic acid) is a short-chain fatty acid with the chemical formula C₄H₈O₂

It is a carboxylic acid that is found in small amounts in animal fats and plant oils.

It is also produced by bacteria during the fermentation of dietary fiber in the gut.

It is a colourless liquid with a penetrating and rather unpleasant odour.

Used primarily for adding a sharpness to buttery or dairy type compositions. 

It is definately an intreresting material that is worthy of a try, even just to satisfy curiosity!

Butyric acid is reacted with alcohols to create Butyrate Esters, which have pleasant scents.

Common Butyrate Esters include:

• Methyl Butyrate – Fruity, apple/pineapple-like aroma
• Ethyl Butyrate – Sweet, pineapple/orange-like scent
• Butyl Butyrate – Fruity, floral notes

Product specification.

CAS No: 107-92-6
Odour description (decreasing): Rancid Butter, Sour
Solvent: None
Synonyms: n-Butanoic Acid, n-Butyric Acid, Ethylacetic Acid, Propylformic Acid, 1-Butyric Acid, 1-Propanecarboxylic Acid, Propanecarboxylic Acid, Butanic Acid, Buttersaeure, Kyselina Maselna, 1-Butanoic Acid
IFRA:

Signal word: Danger

Hazard statements:

• H302 Harmful if swallowed.
• H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
• H335 May cause respiratory irritation.

Precautionary statements:

• P261 Avoid breathing mist or vapors.
• P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
• P280 Wear protective gloves/ protective clothing/ eye protection/ face protection.
• P301+P312 IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/ doctor if you feel unwell.
• P303+P361+P353 IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/ shower.
• P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.