Butyric Acid is a carboxylic acid with a strong, rancid smell reminiscent of body odor or sour milk. Despite its unpleasant scent, it is used in low concentrations to add complexity and authenticity to certain fragrance profiles.
Rarely used in perfumery due to its strong odor. When utilized, it is in minimal concentrations to create specific scent effects, often in cheese and butter flavorings.
IUPAC Name: butanoic acidCAS Number: 107-92-6
Molecular Formula: C4H8O2
Molecular Weight: 88.11 g/mol
Boiling Point: 326.3 °F at 760 mmHg
Melting Point: -7.9 °C (17.8 °F)
Use/s: Scent
Synonyms
1: butyric acid 2: butanoic acid 3: n-Butyric acid 4: n-Butanoic acid 5: propylformic acid 6: ethylacetic acid 7: 1-propanecarboxylic acid 8: butyrate 9: Butanic acid
Chemist Says
Butyric acid appears as a colorless liquid with a penetrating and unpleasant odor. Flash point 170 °F. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Density 8.0 lb /gal.
Scent: Rancid, Butterlike
Scent profile
Scent profiles are inherently subjective and can significantly differ among individuals, and may also be influenced by the conditions at the time of evaluation. The information provided here is a synthesis of data from diverse sources, including books, cross-references, artificial intelligence analyses, and chemical research sites, aiming to present a comprehensive overview. We've distilled this information to highlight the most frequently observed scent profiles for each molecule or compound, offering a generalized perspective.
1: Rancid, Sour, Complex
2: Rancid, Sour, Unpleasant
3: Unpleasant, rancid odor
4: Unpleasant, pungent, with a cheesy and sweaty character
Corrosive