Propyl propionate

Chemical properties

Clear colorless liquid

Chemical properties

Propyl propionate has a complex, fruity odor reminiscent of apple, banana and pineapple. It has a somewhat pleasant, bitter flavor.

Occurrence

Reported found among the volatile constituents of grape var. white sauvignon. Also reported found in fresh apple, apple juice, apricot, melon, papaya, pear, Gruyere de Comte cheese, rum, cider, popcorn, durian, olive, malt whiskey and coffee.

The Uses of Propyl propionate

Propyl propionate is a general reagent which can be used in various transesterification reactions. It is used as Solvent for nitrocellulose, paints, varnishes, lacquers, coating agents.

Preparation

Propyl propionate was synthesized by esterification of propyl alcohol with the corresponding acid in the presence of concentrated H2SO4, or in the presence of BF3.

Definition

ChEBI: Propyl propionate is a propanoate ester resulting from the formal condensation of the hydroxy group of propanol with the carboxy group of propanoic acid. It has a role as a human metabolite, a rat metabolite, a biomarker and a fungal metabolite. It is functionally related to a propan-1-ol.

What are the applications of Application

n-propyl propionate is a fast evaporating solvent. Its linear structure contributes to effective viscosity reduction and improves solvent diffusion from coating films. It has application in automotive refinish, OEM coatings, appliance coatings, printing inks and as polymerization solvent.Its good activity yields efficient resin viscosity reduction that enables the development of lower VOC coatings. Its high electrical resistivity is beneficial in optimizing transfer efficiency in coatings applied via electrostatic spray equipment.

Aroma threshold values

Detection: 57 ppb

Taste threshold values

Taste characteristics at 20 ppm: sweet, lift, tropical green, fruity notes.

General Description

Propyl propionate and water mixtures can be separated by pervaporation using PEBA membranes. The diffusivity of pure propyl propionate in the PEBA membrane is about 28 times higher than pure water diffusivity.

Flammability and Explosibility

Flammable

Purification Methods

Treat the ester with anhydrous CuSO4, then distil it under nitrogen. [Beilstein 2 IV 707.]