n-octanoic acid is an organic compound with the molecular formula c8h16o2. it is a colorless and transparent oily liquid. there is a smell of sweat. used for making dyes, drugs, spices, plasticizers, lubricants, etc. it can also be used as a preservative, bactericide, etc. it is produced by saponifying coconut oil, then acidifying and fractionating it.
specific physical and chemical properties are as follows:
appearance: colorless or slightly yellow transparent oily liquid;
density: 0.91;
melting point: 16-16.5°c;
boiling point: 237°c;
refractive index: 1.4268-1.4288;
flash point : 130°c;
water solubility: 0.68g/l (20°c);
solubility: slightly soluble in hot water, soluble in most organic solvents, such as ethanol , ether, chloroform, benzene, carbon disulfide, petroleum ether and glacial acetic acid.
