Octyl acetate, or octyl ethanoate, is an organic compound with the formula CH3(CH2)7O2CCH3. It is classified as an ester that is formed from 1-octanol (octyl alcohol) and acetic acid. It is found in oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus products.
Octyl acetate can be synthesized by the Fischer esterification of 1-octanol and acetic acid: CH3(CH2)7OH + CH3CO2H → CH3(CH2)7O2CCH3 + H2O
Uses Because of its fruity odor, octyl acetate is used as the basis for artificial flavors and in perfumery where it lends green, earthy, mushroom, herbal, waxy, fruity, and apple notes. It is also a solvent for nitrocellulose, waxes, oils, and some resins.
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