Heptaldehyde (n-Heptanal)
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries is a leading manufacturer of Heptaldehyde (also known as Enanthal or Heptanal), a C-7 aldehyde derived exclusively from the pyrolysis of Castor Oil.
As a primary cleavage product of the ricinoleic acid molecule, Heptaldehyde serves as a critical intermediate in the synthesis of fine fragrances, flavors, and high-performance polymers.1 Its high reactivity makes it a versatile building block for the organic chemical industry.
1. Production: The Pyrolysis Process
Heptaldehyde is produced alongside Undecylenic Acid through the destructive distillation (cracking) of Castor Oil.
- Process: Castor Oil (or Methyl Ricinoleate) is subjected to flash pyrolysis at temperatures exceeding 400°C – 500°C.
- Reaction: The ricinoleic chain cleaves at the C-11/C-12 bond. The volatile C-7 fragment forms Heptaldehyde, while the remaining C-11 fragment forms Undecylenic Acid.
- Optimization: We utilize specific radical initiators (such as Benzoyl Peroxide) and controlled pressure to maximize the yield of the aldehyde and inhibit polymerization.
Chemical Equation:
$$C_{18}H_{34}O_3 \ (Ricinoleic) \xrightarrow{\Delta} C_7H_{14}O \ (Heptaldehyde) + C_{11}H_{20}O_2 \ (Undecylenic \ Acid)$$
2. Key Industrial Applications
Perfumery & Flavors (High Value)
This is the most significant commercial use of Heptaldehyde.
- Alpha Amyl Cinnamic Aldehyde (ACA): Heptaldehyde is condensed with Benzaldehyde to produce ACA. Known as “Jasmine Aldehyde,” this is the primary ingredient used to create jasmine floral notes in perfumes, soaps, and detergents.2
- Green Notes: Used directly in trace amounts to impart fatty, green, or fruity notes to flavor compounds.
Chemical Synthesis
- Heptanoic Acid: Oxidized to form Heptanoic Acid, used in synthetic aviation lubricants (Polyol Esters).3
- Heptyl Alcohol: Reduced to form Heptanol, used as a solvent and plasticizer intermediate.
Rubber & Polymers
- Accelerators: Used in the manufacture of vulcanization accelerators for the rubber industry.4
- Solvents: Acts as a solvent for rubber and plastic resins due to its ether-like solvency.
3. Technical Specifications (TDS)
Nova Industries guarantees a purity suitable for catalytic synthesis.
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
| Product Name | Heptaldehyde (n-Heptanal) | — |
| Synonyms | Enanthaldehyde, Aldehyde C-7, Enanthole | — |
| CAS Number | 111-71-7 | — |
| Molecular Formula | $C_7H_{14}O$ | — |
| Appearance | Colorless to Pale Yellow Liquid | Visual |
| Purity (GC) | 97.0% Min | Gas Chromatography |
| Density @ 20°C | 0.817 – 0.820 g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Boiling Point | 152°C – 154°C (Atmospheric) | — |
| Flash Point | 35°C (Flammable) | Closed Cup |
| Refractive Index | 1.411 – 1.415 | — |
| Acid Value | 5.0 mg KOH/g Max | ISO 660 |
| Solubility | Soluble in Alcohol, Ether; Slightly in Water | — |
| Odor | Penetrating, Fruity, Fatty | Organoleptic |
Packaging & Safety
- Packaging: 175 Kg / 190 Kg HDPE Drums or ISO Tanks.
- Handling: Heptaldehyde is Flammable (Class 3).5 It is air-sensitive and can oxidize to acid over time.
- Storage: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area under a nitrogen blanket to prevent oxidation.
For Aroma Chemical Inquiries:
Nova Industries
Website: https://novaind.in/