Isobutyl propionate

Description

Isobutyl propionate has an odor similar to the corresponding ethyl ester but more refined and fresher. It has a bitter flavor. Prepared by direct esterification or by reacting propionyl chloride with isobutyl alcohol in the presence of Mg dust in ether solution.

Chemical properties

Isobutyl propionate is a clear colorless to pale yellow liquid that has an odor similar to the corresponding ethyl ester but more refined and fresher. It has a bitter flavor. It is highly soluble in ethanol and ether but insoluble in water. It can be found naturally occurring in grapes, apples, pears, rum, and other similar products. Isobutyl propionate is mainly used in the production of fruit flavors. This compound can prepared by direct esterification or by reacting propionyl chloride with isobutyl alcohol in the presence of Mg dust in ether solution.

Occurrence

Reported found in grapes, hop oil, apple, pear, rum, apricot, melon, Gruyere and Parmesan cheese, cider, mushroom, quince, Bourbon vanilla and spineless monkey orange

The Uses of Isobutyl propionate

manufacture of fruit essences.

Preparation

By direct esterification or by reacting propionyl chloride with isobutyl alcohol in the presence of Mg dust in ether solution.

Definition

ChEBI: 2-Methylpropyl propanoate is a carboxylic ester.

Aroma threshold values

Aroma characteristics at 1.0%: fruity, sweet, rummy, pungent, bubble gum estry with a tropical nuance

Taste threshold values

Taste characteristics at 10 ppm: sweet, fruity, banana, tutti-frutti, with rummy nuances

General Description

A colorless liquid. Flash point of 86°F. Less dense than water. Vapors heavier than air. May be mildly toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. Used to make plastics.

Air & Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Slightly soluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Isobutyl propionate is an ester. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides.

Health Hazard

May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water.

Safety Profile

Mldly toxic by ingestion. Flammable when exposed to heat or flame, can react vigorously with oxidizing materials. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. See also ESTERS, PROPIONIC ACID, and ISOBUTYL ALCOHOL.