For professionals in the chemical, flavor, and fragrance industries, a thorough understanding of a compound's chemical profile is essential for effective application and procurement. 2-Methylbutyraldehyde, identified by CAS number 96-17-3, is a compound whose specific properties dictate its utility and handling. As a key ingredient supplied by manufacturers worldwide, knowing its detailed specifications ensures that buyers receive a product that meets their exact needs.

At its core, 2-Methylbutyraldehyde is an aldehyde with the molecular formula C5H10O. Its molecular weight is approximately 86.13 g/mol. A critical physical characteristic is its appearance: it is a colorless liquid at room temperature. This clarity is often an indicator of its purity. The compound's melting point is quite low, around -67.38°C, which means it remains liquid even in moderately cold conditions. Conversely, its boiling point is typically in the range of 90-92°C at standard pressure, making it moderately volatile.

Purity is a paramount specification for 2-Methylbutyraldehyde, especially when it's intended for food or fragrance applications. Reputable manufacturers typically guarantee a high assay, commonly specified as ≥99% or even ≥99.5%. This high purity ensures consistent performance in flavor formulations and minimizes the presence of unwanted byproducts that could alter the aroma or taste. Verification of this purity is often done through Gas Chromatography (GC), and buyers should look for suppliers who provide GC data with their product specifications.

Solubility is another important property. 2-Methylbutyraldehyde is described as being soluble in water, although specific solubility figures (e.g., 17 mg/ml at 20° C) are sometimes provided. It is also readily soluble in common organic solvents like ethanol and propylene glycol, which is beneficial for its incorporation into various solvent-based flavor systems. Its density is around 0.806 g/mL at 20°C, which is slightly less dense than water.

For flavorists, the sensory characteristics are as critical as the chemical specifications. While not a quantitative measure, understanding its aroma profile – described as complex, sweet, chocolatelike, malty, and subtly nutty when diluted – is key to its application. Its FEMA number, 2691, further confirms its GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status for use as a flavoring agent in the United States.

When sourcing 2-Methylbutyraldehyde, buyers should pay close attention to the provided specifications by the manufacturer. This includes checking the assay percentage, appearance (colorless liquid), CAS number confirmation, and any other relevant parameters like refractive index or flash point. Partnering with a trusted China manufacturer like NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM ensures that these specifications are met, providing a reliable foundation for your product development and manufacturing processes. Understanding these details empowers buyers to make informed purchasing decisions and ensures the quality of the final product.