Methyl isovalerate

Description

Methyl isovalerate has a strong, pungent, apple-like odor and a bitter flavor. It may be prepared by esterification of isovaleric acid with methyl alcohol at the boil in the presence of concentrated H2SON4.

Chemical properties

clear slightly yellow liquid

Chemical properties

Methyl isovalerate has a strong, pungent, apple-like odor and a bitter flavor. This compound is also reported to have an herbaceous, fruity odor.

Occurrence

Reported found in the juice of a few varieties of Florida oranges, pineapple, apple, banana, bilberry, blueberry, strawberry, melon, peas, peppermint oil, pepper, blue, Gruyere and parmesan cheese, coffee, honey, olive, mushroom, jackfruit, cherimoya, sage, custard apple, nectarine, lamb’s lettuce and cape gooseberry

The Uses of Methyl isovalerate

Isovaleric Acid Methyl Ester is a volatile compound found in Albion and Juliette strawberry fruits that contributes to the flavor of the fruit.

Preparation

By esterification of isovaleric acid with methyl alcohol at the boil in the presence of concentrated H2SO4.

Definition

ChEBI: Methyl 3-methylbutanoate is a fatty acid ester.

Aroma threshold values

Detection: 4.4 to 44 ppb

Taste threshold values

Taste characteristics at 80 ppm: fruity, pineapple, apple with a juicy, fruit-like nuance

Synthesis Reference(s)

Tetrahedron Letters, 8, p. 4805, 1967 DOI: 10.1016/S0040-4039(01)89607-6

General Description

A colorless liquid. Flash point below 70°F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air. May be slightly toxic by ingestion and inhalation. Used to make other chemicals.

Air & Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Methyl isovalerate 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.