3-Methylbutyric Acid
CAS Number: 503-74-2 | Purity: ≥99% Assay
Key Quick Facts
- Molecular Weight: 102.13 g/mol
- Odor Profile: Characteristic cheesy and fruity aroma, typical for branched-chain fatty acids
- Appearance: Clear to pale yellow liquid
- Synonyms: Isovaleric acid, β-Methylbutyric acid, 3-Methylbutanoic acid, Delphinic acid
- Availability: In stock, offered in multiple packaging sizes from 100 g to 25 kg drums
3-Methylbutyric Acid is a versatile short-chain carboxylic acid widely recognized for its distinctive scent and critical role as an ester synthesis intermediate. Its high purity and consistent quality make it ideal across perfumery, flavoring, and industrial applications.
Product Overview
3-Methylbutyric Acid, also known as isovaleric acid, β-methylbutyric acid, or 3-methylbutanoic acid, is a naturally occurring branched-chain fatty acid found in various plant and animal sources. It’s widely used in ester synthesis, serving as a key intermediate to produce esters that are popular in lubricants, polymers, and flavorings. In perfumery, 3-Methylbutyric Acid is valued for its distinctive cheesy yet fruity notes, making it a versatile base for creating rich, complex scents.
We pride ourselves on delivering 3-Methylbutyric Acid with consistent high purity and adhering to strict quality control standards. Our sustainable sourcing and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes ensure that you receive a reliable product, supporting your needs in flavor, fragrance, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications worldwide.
Chemical Specifications of 3-Methylbutyric Acid
Here’s a quick look at the key physical and chemical specs for 3-Methylbutyric Acid, also known as isovaleric acid or 3-methylbutanoic acid:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colourless to pale yellow liquid |
| Boiling Point | ~176 °C |
| Melting Point | -37 °C |
| Density | 0.92 g/cm³ at 20°C |
| Solubility | Miscible with water and common organic solvents |
Purity & Assay Standards
- Typical purity: ≥ 99%
- Assay by GC or HPLC methods ensures batch-to-batch consistency
- Impurity limits strictly controlled, including limits on moisture, acids, and volatile organics
Storage & Stability
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers
- Keep containers tightly closed to prevent odor leakage and contamination
- Stable under recommended storage; avoid prolonged exposure to heat and light
These specs ensure reliable quality for your applications in flavor synthesis, perfumery, or industrial intermediate use.
Applications and Uses of 3-Methylbutyric Acid
3-Methylbutyric acid plays a key role as an industrial intermediate for creating esters used in lubricants, plasticizers, and polymers. Its branched-chain structure makes it ideal for crafting specialty esters, which improve product performance and durability.
In the flavor and fragrance industry, it’s prized for its unique aroma profile. It brings fruity and cheesy notes to perfumes and flavor formulations. The esters derived from 3-methylbutyric acid add fresh, tangy, and slightly savory nuances, making it a go-to ingredient in both food flavors and perfumery bases.
Beyond scent and taste, this compound is a valuable pharmaceutical and biochemical precursor. It links closely to leucine metabolism, used in synthesizing β-hydroxyisovaleric acid and other derivatives vital for research and drug development.
In food and beverage, 3-methylbutyric acid is recognized as a safe flavoring agent with GRAS approval. It’s used to enhance and balance flavors, especially where natural, fermented, or aged cheese and fruit notes are desired.
of key uses:
- Intermediate in ester synthesis for lubricants and polymers
- Flavoring agent delivering fruity and cheesy profiles
- Base ingredient in perfumery for unique scent notes
- Pharmaceutical precursor for biochemical applications
- GRAS-certified additive in food and beverage products
This versatility makes 3-methylbutyric acid a staple for manufacturers aiming for quality, safety, and innovation across industries.
Safety and Regulatory Data
3-Methylbutyric Acid is classified as a hazardous substance due to its strong odor and potential skin irritation. When handling, always use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety goggles, and lab coats to protect against contact. Work in well-ventilated areas or use fume hoods to manage its distinctive cheesy odor and avoid inhalation of vapors.
This chemical complies with key regulations including REACH in Europe and TSCA in the US, ensuring it meets strict safety and environmental standards. We provide full safety data sheets (SDS) and technical documents for download to guide safe handling, storage, and disposal.
Key Safety Tips:
- Use gloves and eye protection at all times.
- Handle in ventilated spaces or under fume extraction.
- Store in tightly sealed containers away from heat and incompatible materials.
- Follow local and international regulatory guidelines.
Our commitment to quality and safety means you get 3-Methylbutyric Acid that meets global compliance for your peace of mind.
Packaging and Availability
We offer 3-Methylbutyric Acid in a variety of packaging options to suit your needs. Sizes range from small 100g bottles perfect for lab work, up to large 25kg drums for industrial use. Need a custom volume? Just reach out—custom packaging is available.
Shipping is global and handled with care, fully compliant with HAZMAT regulations to ensure safe delivery. Whether you’re in a local lab or a large manufacturing facility, we’ve got your supply covered.
Quality Assurance for 3-Methylbutyric Acid
We take quality seriously. Our 3-Methylbutyric Acid is produced under strict ISO 9001 and cGMP certified processes, ensuring consistency and reliability you can count on. Each batch undergoes thorough analytical testing — including NMR, HPLC, and GC — to verify purity, confirm identity, and check for impurities.
This means you’ll receive a product that meets tight specifications every time, ideal for sensitive applications like flavor, fragrance, and pharmaceutical use. We back our quality with detailed certificates of analysis and full traceability, so you can trust exactly what’s in your supply.
Pricing and Purchasing
We offer competitive tiered pricing on 3-Methylbutyric Acid to suit different needs, whether you’re buying small batches or bulk quantities. The more you order, the better the discounts you get—helping you manage costs efficiently.
Need just a bit to test or develop? Order a sample easily to check quality before committing. Ready to buy in volume? Contact our sales team for a tailored quote and flexible payment options.
Get in touch to:
- Request a personalized quote
- Order a sample for evaluation
- Talk to sales about custom volumes and delivery
We’re here to make your purchasing smooth and straightforward, with global shipping and HAZMAT compliance for your convenience.
Related Products
Looking for chemicals that complement 3-Methylbutyric Acid? Check out our range of related products:
- Butyric Acid – A short-chain carboxylic acid with a strong cheesy odor, perfect for flavoring and ester synthesis.
- Valeric Acid (Isopentanoic Acid) – Another branched-chain fatty acid often used in perfumery and as an industrial intermediate.
- Gotrays Ester Kits – Ready-made kits designed to help you quickly create esters from 3-Methylbutyric Acid and related acids, ideal for flavor and fragrance development.
Each product is sourced with the same commitment to quality, ensuring you get reliable, consistent materials backed by rigorous testing and compliance.
Customer Support and Resources
FAQs
What is the odor threshold of 3-Methylbutyric Acid?
It has a strong, cheesy odor noticeable even at very low concentrations. Proper handling and ventilation help manage this in the workspace.
Is 3-Methylbutyric Acid vegan-friendly?
Yes, it is a plant-based, synthetic chemical with no animal-derived ingredients.
Can I get samples before ordering?
Absolutely. Contact our sales team to request a sample for testing.
Is it safe for use in food and fragrance products?
Yes, it is GRAS-approved as a flavoring agent and widely used in perfumery for its fruity and cheesy ester notes.
Helpful Resources
Blog Articles:
Check out our latest posts on flavor innovation, ester synthesis, and sustainable chemical production.
Technical Support:
Download SDS and product datasheets directly from our website for detailed safety and usage info.
Contact Us
- Have questions or need assistance? Reach out via:
- Phone: +44 20 1234 5678
- Email: support@chemicalsupplier.com
- Live Chat: Available Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM (local time)
We’re here to support your sourcing, provide technical guidance, and ensure your experience with 3-Methylbutyric Acid is seamless and reliable.
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