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Everything About Butyric Acid: Properties, Industrial Applications, and Sourcing
Butyric Acid. Known scientifically as butanoic acid, this short-chain fatty acid is a cornerstone of the chemical industry. Whether you are in the pharmaceutical field, food flavoring industry, or agricultural sector, understanding the nuances of this compound is essential.
At Chemicals Suppliers, we pride ourselves on being the global hub for sourcing high-purity chemical compounds. This deep-dive article explores every facet of Butyric Acid, from its molecular structure to its wide-ranging industrial synthesis.
Butyric acid (IUPAC name: butanoic acid) is a carboxylic acid with the structural formula $CH_3CH_2CH_2COOH$. It is characterized by its pungent, sour smell—reminiscent of rancid butter—and its oily consistency.
Its name is derived from the Greek word βούτυρον (butter), because it was first discovered in rancid butter. Understanding these synonyms is critical when navigating international chemical databases and trade platforms.
Butyric acid is a colorless liquid at room temperature. It is miscible with water, ethanol, and ether.
Because it is a weak acid, it reacts with bases to form Butyrates (such as Sodium Butyrate or Calcium Butyrate), which are widely used in supplements and feed additives for livestock.
Due to its pleasant fruity odor in diluted forms, esters of butyric acid (like methyl butyrate and ethyl butyrate) are used extensively in the flavor and fragrance industry. They serve as artificial flavorings for pineapple, banana, and strawberry products.
Butyrate is a primary energy source for colonocytes (cells of the colon lining). It is researched extensively for its anti-inflammatory properties and its role in gut-brain axis health. Sodium Butyrate is a popular supplement for individuals seeking to improve digestive health.
In the agricultural sector, butyric acid is a game-changer. It is added to piglet and poultry feed to promote gut integrity, enhance nutrient absorption, and reduce the need for antibiotics.
Butyric acid is a precursor in the production of cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB), a high-quality thermoplastic used in automotive coatings, tool handles, and optical frames.
When sourcing industrial-grade or food-grade Butyric Acid, purity and supply-chain transparency are paramount. At Chemicals Suppliers, we provide:
At Chemicals Suppliers, we maintain an extensive catalog of organic acids, esters, and reagents. Below is a curated list of related compounds frequently bought alongside Butyric Acid.
Note: Prices vary based on market fluctuation and volume. Visit Chemicals Suppliers for a live quote.
| Chemical Name | CAS Number | Typical Price ($/KG) |
|---|---|---|
| Acetic Acid | 64-19-7 | $2.50 |
| Propionic Acid | 79-09-4 | $3.20 |
| Valeric Acid | 109-52-4 | $12.00 |
| Caproic Acid | 142-62-1 | $8.50 |
| Sodium Butyrate | 156-54-7 | $9.00 |
| Calcium Butyrate | 136-99-2 | $11.00 |
| Ethyl Butyrate | 105-54-4 | $7.00 |
| Methyl Butyrate | 623-42-7 | $7.50 |
| Isobutyric Acid | 79-31-2 | $6.50 |
| Butyl Acetate | 123-86-4 | $3.00 |
| … (List continues for 50+ items at link) | Click Here | Live Price |
Visit the Chemicals Suppliers Catalog to view the full inventory of over 5,000 industrial reagents.
Importing or exporting organic acids requires knowledge of REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) in Europe and TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) in the United States. Ensure that your supplier provides a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) detailing:
The demand for Butyric Acid is rising due to the “clean label” trend in food processing and the growing focus on gut health in medicine. Market analysts predict a CAGR of 5.8% through 2030. Sourcing your chemicals from a reliable partner like Chemicals Suppliers ensures you remain insulated from supply chain shocks.
Q: Is Butyric Acid safe for human consumption? A: In very diluted forms, it is a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) food additive. However, concentrated butyric acid is a strong corrosive and must be handled with PPE.
Q: Where can I buy bulk Butyric Acid? A: You can purchase industrial, food, or lab-grade quantities directly at Chemicals Suppliers.
Q: How is it stored safely? A: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizing agents. Use stainless steel or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers.
For our diverse international clientele, here are the terms for “Butyric Acid” in different languages:
Whether you are synthesizing new pharmaceutical derivatives or optimizing animal feed additives, high-quality Butyric Acid is non-negotiable. At Chemicals Suppliers, we combine expertise, supply chain reliability, and superior customer service to provide the building blocks of your success.
Ready to place an order or need a technical specification sheet? Visit our homepage today and join thousands of satisfied laboratories and industrial manufacturers worldwide.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes. Always handle chemicals according to local safety regulations and wear appropriate protective equipment. Refer to internal Chemicals Suppliers documentation for specific purity levels.
