Октаналь

What octanal is

Octanal is also called caprylic aldehyde, octanaldehyde or aldehyde C-8, and its CAS number is 124-13-0. Formally it arises from reduction of the carboxy group of caprylic acid, also called octanoic acid. It is a saturated, medium-chain fatty aldehyde, and it is a substrate for fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase and alcohol dehydrogenase.

Fatty aldehydes are aliphatic, long-chain aldehydes, and the group includes octanal, nonanal, decanal and dodecanal. Many fatty aldehydes are used as fragrances in perfume production.

Odor across the aldehyde series

The odors of aliphatic aldehydes vary strongly with the size and shape of the molecules. Short-chain aldehydes have rather sharp and unpleasant odors, which become milder as the carbon chain lengthens. From C8 to C12 the odors have a waxy-floral note, and they become faint by C14.

Occurrence

Octanal occurs naturally in citrus oils. It has been isolated from various plant oils, especially those of Citrus species, and is also present in kumquat peel oil, cardamom, coriander, caraway and other herbs. It has a role as a plant metabolite.

Solubility and handling

It is slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol, most fixed oils and propylene glycol, and insoluble in glycerol. Because it is easily oxidized, it should be protected from air exposure during storage and handling. Stored properly in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed containers, away from heat and light and under nitrogen, it keeps for twelve months or longer.

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