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Decanoic Acid-Scentspiracy molecule illustration chemical Perfume ingredients store.jpg
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Decanoic Acid

€7.80

PREMIUM SYNTHETIC INGREDIENT FOR PERFUMERY

Decanoic Acid (334-48-5), also known as Capric Acid, is a medium-chain saturated fatty acid (C10) widely used in fragrance, flavor, and cosmetic formulations. Naturally present in coconut oil and palm kernel oil, it carries a distinctive fatty, soapy, waxy odor with animalic nuances that, when skillfully dosed, adds depth and authenticity to perfumes, dairy notes, and functional fragrances.

Its versatility extends to surfactant preparation, emulsification, antimicrobial applications, and ester synthesis, making it a valuable ingredient across both fine fragrance and industrial sectors.

PREMIUM SYNTHETIC INGREDIENT FOR PERFUMERY

Decanoic Acid (334-48-5), also known as Capric Acid, is a medium-chain saturated fatty acid (C10) widely used in fragrance, flavor, and cosmetic formulations. Naturally present in coconut oil and palm kernel oil, it carries a distinctive fatty, soapy, waxy odor with animalic nuances that, when skillfully dosed, adds depth and authenticity to perfumes, dairy notes, and functional fragrances.

Its versatility extends to surfactant preparation, emulsification, antimicrobial applications, and ester synthesis, making it a valuable ingredient across both fine fragrance and industrial sectors.

Technical Ingredient Overview

  • 🔎 Chemical Name — Decanoic acid

  • 🧪 Synonyms — Capric acid, n-Decanoic acid

  • 📂 CAS — 334-48-5

  • 📘 FEMA — 2364

  • ⚖️ MW — 172.26 g/mol

  • 📝 Odor Type — Fatty, soapy

  • 📈 Odor Strength — Medium

  • 👃🏼 Odor Profile — Fatty, soapy, unpleasant, rancid, sour, goat-like, waxy, fruity facets

  • ⚗️ Uses — Cosmetic, flavor and fragrance applications

  • 🧴 Appearance — White crystalline solid or colorless liquid

What is Decanoic Acid?

Decanoic acid, more commonly known in the fragrance industry as capric acid, represents a fascinating example of how nature provides both challenging and essential building blocks for olfactory creation. This medium-chain saturated fatty acid consists of exactly ten carbon atoms arranged in a straight chain, terminated by a carboxylic acid functional group that fundamentally defines its chemical behavior and olfactory characteristics.

Understanding decanoic acid requires appreciating the broader context of fatty acids in fragrance chemistry. As a ten-carbon, saturated fatty acid, it occupies a crucial position in the homologous series, where chain length dramatically influences both physical properties and olfactory perception. This structural precision makes it particularly valuable for perfumers who understand how molecular architecture translates into specific sensory experiences.

The compound exists naturally in significant concentrations in certain plant oils, particularly coconut oil (about 10%)and palm kernel oil (about 4%), though it remains uncommon in typical seed oils. This natural occurrence provides sustainable sourcing options while ensuring consistent quality standards for both cosmetic and food-grade applications. Its natural origin also supports regulatory acceptance across multiple industries, where synthetic alternatives might face restrictions.

From a technical perspective, decanoic acid exhibits a dual nature as both a functional ingredient (used in surfactant preparation and emulsification) and an olfactory component, contributing distinctive character notes in fragrance compositions.

Historical Background

The historical trajectory of decanoic acid reflects the broader evolution of fatty acid chemistry. Systematic study of fatty acids began in the 19th century, when chemists first isolated and characterized components of natural fats and oils, identifying decanoic acid among medium-chain fatty acids in tropical oils.

The term capric acid derives from the Latin caper / capra (goat), due to its sweaty, goat-like odor, showing how early chemists relied on olfactory characteristics to name compounds. The growth of tropical oil industries in the 20th century enabled efficient isolation and purification, making high-quality decanoic acid available for specialized applications, including perfumery.

Regulatory milestones include: FEMA number 2364 (GRAS framework acceptance) and widespread use in cosmetics, demonstrating safety assessments across multiple jurisdictions.

Olfactory Profile

Decanoic acid has a complex olfactory profile, combining unpleasant, rancid, sour, goat-like characteristics with soapy and waxy nuances. Its amphiphilic structure (hydrophilic carboxylic group + hydrophobic carbon chain) contributes to its ability to influence the perception of other fragrance components.

The ten-carbon chain length positions decanoic acid at the transition from fruity to animal/rancid notes, making it useful for adding realistic complexity to fragrances. Fruity facets emerge when used in extremely low concentrations or masked by other materials. Its medium odor strength allows it to contribute meaningfully while maintaining substantivity, ideal for animal, dairy, or fermented notes.

Applications in Fine Fragrance

Decanoic acid is highly specialized in perfumery. It provides authenticity in natural animal essences, enhances dairy and fermented notes, and can modify synthetic musks or woody components to increase naturalness.

Dosage typically remains extremely low (parts per million), requiring precise dilution and blending to ensure consistent results. Its potency demands technical competence from perfumers.

Industrial & Technical Uses

Beyond perfumery, decanoic acid serves multiple industrial functions:

  • Preparation of ammonium decanoate and disperse phases for emulsification

  • Cosmetic applications as an emulsifying agent and pH adjuster

  • Antimicrobial properties, e.g., inhibiting Candida albicans biofilm formation

  • Industrial cleaning and microbiocide applications in food processing and dairy industries

  • Ester production for lubricants, plasticizers, and specialty chemicals

Regulatory & Safety Overview

Decanoic acid benefits from a long history of safe use.

  • FEMA number 2364 – GRAS framework acceptance

  • Natural occurrence in coconut and palm kernel oils reduces toxicological concerns

  • No significant toxicological risks when used according to established guidelines

  • Biodegradable and environmentally friendly, minimizing persistence or bioaccumulation

Handling considerations:

  • UN3077 classification applies to bulk industrial forms

  • Proper protocols are needed to prevent environmental release, though typical fragrance concentrations are safe

International regulatory frameworks generally treat decanoic acid favorably due to its natural origin and established safety profile, making it suitable for sensitive markets and applications.

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