Octanal
Octanal, also known as caprylaldehyde, is an aldehyde with the chemical formula CH3(CH2)6CHO. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent, fruity odor that is used in perfumery and flavoring.
Octanal occurs naturally in citrus fruits, and is a component of several essential oils. Commercially, it can be produced through the hydroformylation of 1-heptene using syngas and a catalyst, or by the oxidation of 1-octanol.
Octanal is employed as a flavoring agent, adding a citrusy or fatty flavor to various food products. In perfumery, it contributes to floral and citrus notes.
Chemically, octanal undergoes typical aldehyde reactions, such as oxidation to octanoic acid and reduction to 1-octanol. It can also participate in aldol condensation reactions. Octanal is considered a flammable liquid, and safety precautions should be taken when handling it.