Decanoic Acid, identified by CAS 334-48-5, is a medium-chain saturated fatty acid characterized by its high-purity ten-carbon carboxylic acid structure. As a versatile decanoic acid, this technical-grade capric acid functions as a primary building block in various chemical intermediate synthesis processes. This crystalline decylic acid is valued for its ability to undergo esterification and amidation to produce high-performance lubricants, specialized plasticizers, and aromatic esters for industrial use. Our facility provides competitive factory pricing and customized specifications regarding purity levels to ensure seamless integration into complex organic synthesis chains. For technical validation and regulatory compliance, we offer comprehensive MSDS, TDS, COA documentation and maintain consistent bulk supply for global industrial distribution.
Decanoic Acid CAS 334-48-5
- CAS: 334-48-5
- Synonyms: Capric acid, Decylic acid, n-Capric acid, n-Decanoic acid, Decylic acid
- Einecs: 206-376-4
- Molecular Formula: C10H20O2
- Grade: Technical Grade / Cosmetic Grade / Flavour Grade
- Package: 180kg Epoxy-lined Steel Drum / 850kg IBC / ISO Tank (Heated).
Product Description
Decanoic Acid is a straight-chain fatty acid. While it is naturally found in milk and various plant oils, industrial production relies on the hydrolysis and fractionation of tropical oils.
Key Features of our C10 Acid:
- High Purity: We strictly control the C8 (Caprylic) and C12 (Lauric) cuts to ensure the C10 content meets the stringent requirements for synthesizing downstream esters.
- Color Stability: Our product has a low APHA color value, making it excellent for cosmetic emollients and clear lubricants where color quality is paramount.
- Reactivity: It reacts readily with alcohols to form esters (Decanoates), which are widely used in flavors and fragrances.
Physicochemical Properties
The table below represents the typical specifications for our Fractionated C10 Acid.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystals or colorless liquid |
| Acid Value | 321 – 329 mg KOH/g |
| Saponification Value | 322 – 330 mg KOH/g |
| Iodine Value | ≤ 0.5 g I2/100g (High saturation) |
| Titer (Melting Point) | 31.0°C – 32.0°C |
| Color (Hazen/APHA) | ≤ 20 (Liquid state) |
| Moisture | ≤ 0.2% |
| C10 Content (GC) | ≥ 98.0% (Typical 99%+) |
| C8 Content | ≤ 1.0% |
| C12 Content | ≤ 1.0% |
Applications
- Synthetic Lubricants & Greases:
- Used to produce Polyol Esters (POEs) for aviation turbines and refrigeration compressor oils. C10 esters provide excellent thermal stability.
- Personal Care & Cosmetics:
- A raw material for manufacturing esters used as emollients and emulsifiers.
- Flavors & Fragrances:
- Ethyl Decanoate (formed from Decanoic Acid) is a key component in fruit flavors like grape and cognac.
- Agriculture:
- Used in the formulation of eco-friendly herbicides and pesticides.
- Plasticizers:
- Used in the synthesis of plasticizers for rubber and plastics.
Storage Conditions (Critical)
- Temperature Management: Decanoic Acid has a melting point near 31.5°C.
- In Summer: It will likely be liquid.
- In Winter: It will solidify into a hard white mass.
- Heating: If melting is required, use a hot room or drum heating belt. Do not overheat (keep < 50°C) to prevent oxidation and darkening (yellowing).
- Corrosion: It is a weak acid but can corrode carbon steel over time. We recommend storing in Stainless Steel (SS304/316) tanks or lined drums.
- Ventilation: The product has a distinct, slightly rancid/sour fatty odor. Store in a well-ventilated area away from living quarters.
Safety Precautions
- Skin Irritation: Pure Decanoic Acid is a skin irritant. Direct contact can cause redness and burning. Always wear chemical-resistant gloves (Nitrile/Neoprene).
- Eye Contact: Causes serious eye irritation. Safety goggles are mandatory during handling.
- Inhalation: Inhalation of vapors or mist (if heated) can irritate the respiratory tract.
- Leakage: If the liquid solidifies after a spill, scrape it up mechanically. If liquid, absorb with sand or earth.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is Decanoic Acid CAS 334-48-5?
A: Decanoic Acid CAS 334-48-5, also called capric acid or n-decanoic acid, is a saturated medium-chain fatty acid with the molecular formula C10H20O2 and EINECS number 206-376-4. It is normally a white to pale yellow crystalline solid with a characteristic fatty odor. -
Q:
What are the main industrial applications of Decanoic Acid?
A: Decanoic Acid is used mainly as a chemical intermediate for making decanoate esters, synthetic lubricants, greases, metal soaps and surfactants. It also serves as a building block for plasticizers, flavor and fragrance esters, and other specialty organic compounds. -
Q:
Why is C10 content controlled in Decanoic Acid?
A: The C10 content is controlled to keep caprylic acid C8 and lauric acid C12 impurities low, which helps produce consistent downstream esters and avoid shifts in physical properties. Fractionated Decanoic Acid with high C10 purity is preferred for stable lubricants, clear cosmetic ingredients and reliable fragrance esters. -
Q:
What does the acid value or saponification value tell a buyer?
A: Acid value and saponification value help confirm fatty acid concentration and chain-length consistency. This product typically has an acid value around 321-329 mg KOH/g and saponification value around 322-330 mg KOH/g, with a low iodine value indicating high saturation. -
Q:
How should technical, cosmetic, and flavour grades be selected?
A: The grade should be selected by the end use and regulatory requirement. Cosmetic and flavour grades need suitable color, odor, purity and compliance, while technical grade is used where broader industrial specifications are acceptable and the material is not intended for direct food or personal-care contact. -
Q:
How should Decanoic Acid CAS 334-48-5 be stored and transported?
A: Decanoic Acid is supplied in epoxy-lined steel drums, IBCs or heated ISO tanks, with heated handling useful because its melting point is near ambient temperature. Store it in a dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers and keep containers sealed to avoid moisture and contamination.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.
Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.



