About Butyric Acid
Butyric acid (from Greek , meaning "butter"), also known under the systematic name butanoic acid,abbreviated BTA,[5] is a carboxylic acid with the structural formula CH3CH2CH2-COOH. Salts and esters of butyric acid are known as butyrates or butanoates. Butyric acid is found in milk, especially goat, sheep and buffalo milk, butter, Parmesan cheese, and as a product of anaerobic fermentation (including in the colon and as body odor). It has an unpleasant smell and acrid taste, with a sweetish aftertaste (similar to ether). It an be detected by mammals with good scent detection abilities (such as dogs) at 10 ppb, whereas humans can detect it in concentrations above 10 ppm.Butyric acid is used in the preparation of various butyrate esters.Due to its powerful odor, it has also been used as a fishing bait additive.
Versatile Applications Across IndustriesButyric Acid is widely utilized as a flavoring agent, a chemical intermediate, and as a food additive in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Its efficacy in enhancing the nutritional value of animal feed and its use in perfume manufacturing highlights its broad industrial versatility, ensuring reliable performance in diverse sectors.
Safe Handling And Storage RecommendationsBeing corrosive and strongly acidic, Butyric Acid requires careful handling. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, tightly sealed to prevent any corrosive or irritant exposure. Compliance with recommended storage ensures product stability and safety during transport, warehousing, and application.
FAQs of Butyric Acid:
Q: How should Butyric Acid be stored to maintain its stability?
A: Butyric Acid needs to be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area with containers tightly closed. This prevents degradation and ensures stability as the product remains corrosive and an irritant if exposed.
Q: What are the main uses of Butyric Acid in industrial applications?
A: Butyric Acid is chiefly employed as a flavoring agent in food products, as a chemical intermediate in synthesis, as an animal feed additive, and in the formulation of pharmaceutical and perfume ingredients.
Q: When is Butyric Acid typically added during the manufacturing process?
A: In manufacturing, Butyric Acid is integrated either during the compounding of flavors, blending of pharmaceutical ingredients, or as part of feed formulation, depending on the applications specific requirements and desired product outcome.
Q: Where is Butyric Acid sourced from, and how is it produced?
A: Butyric Acid can be derived from fermentation processes using agricultural substrates or synthesized chemically. Commercial suppliers may offer both natural and synthetic grades to suit industry demand.
Q: What are the benefits of using Butyric Acid in animal feed?
A: When added to animal feed, Butyric Acid enhances feed efficiency and supports animal gut health, owing to its properties that promote digestion and nutrient absorption.
Q: What safety precautions are necessary when handling Butyric Acid?
A: Due to Butyric Acids corrosive and irritating nature, personnel should use appropriate protective equipment, avoid direct contact, and handle it in accordance with hazardous material guidelines.
Q: Which packaging options are available for distributing Butyric Acid?
A: Butyric Acid is available in 25 kg drums, 220 kg drums, and IBC tanks, allowing for flexible options suited to industrial, commercial, and transport necessities.