
Methyl Octanoate, with the CAS number 111 - 11 - 5, is an organic compound. It has a molecular formula of C9H18O2 and a molecular weight of approximately 158.24 g/mol. This ester is a colorless to pale - yellow liquid with a fruity odor, similar to that of cognac or brandy. It has a boiling point around 192 - 194 °C and a melting point of about - 41 °C. Methyl Octanoate is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform, but has limited solubility in water.
Flavor and Fragrance Industry: Due to its pleasant fruity smell, Methyl Octanoate is widely used as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry. It can be used to add a cognac - like or brandy - like flavor to various products, including candies, baked goods, and alcoholic beverages. In the fragrance industry, it is used in the formulation of perfumes and colognes to impart a sweet, fruity note.
Chemical Synthesis: It serves as an important intermediate in organic synthesis. It can be used in the production of other esters, alcohols, and carboxylic acids through various chemical reactions such as hydrolysis, transesterification, and reduction.
Biofuel Application: Methyl Octanoate is also being explored as a potential component in biodiesels. Its relatively high energy content and good combustion properties make it a candidate for use in the development of more sustainable fuel sources.
Flavoring Use: When used as a flavoring agent, the dosage should be carefully controlled according to the specific product requirements and flavor intensity desired. It is usually added in small amounts during the production process of food and beverages. For example, in the production of a fruit - flavored candy, a few parts per million (ppm) of Methyl Octanoate can be added to achieve the desired flavor.
Chemical Synthesis: In chemical reactions, proper reaction conditions such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of catalysts need to be carefully controlled. For transesterification reactions, a suitable catalyst such as sodium methoxide may be used, and the reaction is usually carried out under mild heating conditions.
Biofuel Use: If used in biofuels, Methyl Octanoate may need to be blended with other components to meet the fuel quality standards. The blending ratio and the compatibility with other fuels need to be considered to ensure good combustion performance and engine compatibility.
Case 1: Flavoring in a Fruit - Flavored Liqueur
A well - known liqueur producer wanted to enhance the fruitiness of their brandy - based liqueur. They added a small amount (0.05% by volume) of Methyl Octanoate during the blending process. The result was a significant improvement in the flavor profile, with a more pronounced and authentic cognac - like flavor. Consumers reported that the liqueur had a richer and more complex taste, which led to an increase in sales.
Case 2: Chemical Synthesis of a New Ester
A chemical research team aimed to synthesize a new type of ester for pharmaceutical applications. They used Methyl Octanoate as a starting material in a transesterification reaction with a specific alcohol. By carefully controlling the reaction conditions (temperature at 60 °C, using potassium carbonate as a catalyst), they were able to obtain the desired ester in a high yield (over 80%). This new ester showed potential in drug delivery systems.
Case 3: Biofuel Blending
A biofuel company conducted a test to blend Methyl Octanoate with traditional diesel fuel. They blended it at a ratio of 10% (by volume) with diesel. The blended fuel was tested in a diesel engine, and the results showed improved combustion efficiency, reduced emissions of particulate matter, and a slight increase in power output compared to using pure diesel.

This is William, CEO of Zhishang Chemical Co., Ltd.
Welcome to visit our factory . As the top chemical manufacturer, we have been striving for product quality, innovation , R&D, and customer service for the past 7 years. In the next 10 years or even longer, we are committed to becoming the most reliable chemical supplier in the world , creating a well-known international brand trusted by customers, with the spirit of “one meter wide, ten thousand meters deep”, we continue to focus on product research and development, continue to focus on customer service, continue to improve the supply chain service system, to create a professional chemical supply service team, to achieve win-win long-term cooperation. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.











