Undecanoic Acid (Undecylic Acid)
Manufactured by Nova Industries
Nova Industries manufactures high-purity Undecanoic Acid (also known as Undecylic Acid), a linear C-11 saturated fatty acid derived from renewable Castor Oil.
Produced through the catalytic hydrogenation of Undecylenic Acid, Undecanoic Acid offers a stable, saturated carbon chain. It is widely valued as a chemical intermediate for synthesizing specialty esters used in the flavor, fragrance, and pharmaceutical industries.1
1. Production: Hydrogenation
Unlike naturally occurring fatty acids like Lauric (C-12) or Capric (C-10), the odd-carbon Undecanoic Acid (C-11) is primarily produced synthetically from Castor Oil derivatives.
- Feedstock: High-purity Undecylenic Acid.
- Process: The double bond of the Undecylenic Acid is saturated via hydrogenation in the presence of a catalyst.$$CH_2=CH(CH_2)_8COOH + H_2 \rightarrow CH_3(CH_2)_9COOH$$
- Result: A fully saturated, stable fatty acid that resists oxidation better than its unsaturated precursors.
2. Key Industrial Applications
Fragrance & Flavors
This is the primary market for Undecanoic Acid.
- Esters: It is the parent molecule for esters such as Ethyl Undecanoate (Cognac, Wine, Fruity notes) and Methyl Undecanoate. These esters are critical for creating creamy, waxy, and fruity profiles in flavor formulations.
- Macrocyclic Musks: Serves as a chemical intermediate in the complex synthesis of macrocyclic musk compounds, which are essential fixatives in high-end perfumery.
Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics
- Dermatophilic Ointments: incorporated into ointments and creams for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, though generally milder than Undecylenic Acid. It is non-irritating and helps maintain skin flora balance.
- Emollients: Reacted to form esters that serve as rich, non-greasy emollients in skincare.
Agriculture
- Plant Growth Regulators: Derivatives of Undecanoic Acid are utilized in specific agricultural formulations to regulate plant growth and as herbicidal intermediates.2
3. Technical Specifications (TDS)
Nova Industries supplies this product in a high-purity grade suitable for esterification.
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
| Product Name | Undecanoic Acid (Undecylic Acid) | — |
| Synonyms | Hendecanoic Acid, n-Undecylic Acid | — |
| CAS Number | 112-37-8 | — |
| Chemical Formula | $C_{11}H_{22}O_2$ | — |
| Molecular Weight | 186.3 g/mol | — |
| Physical State | Low Melting Solid (Crystals) / Liquid | Visual |
| Appearance | Colorless to Light Yellow | Visual |
| Odor | Waxy, Creamy, Coconut-like | Organoleptic |
| Melting Point | 28.5°C (83.3°F) | — |
| Boiling Point | 228°C (442.4°F) | — |
| Acid Value | 295 – 305 mg KOH/g | ISO 660 |
| Iodine Value | 0.5 Max (Indicates saturation) | ISO 3961 |
| Purity (GC) | 98.0% Min | Gas Chromatography |
| Flash Point | $> 93°C$ (200°F) | Closed Cup |
Packaging & Storage
- Packaging: 180 Kg Epoxy-Lined Drums / ISO Tanks.
- Handling: Undecanoic Acid has a melting point near room temperature (3$\approx$ 28.5°C).4 It may arrive as a solid block in winter or a liquid in summer. Drum heating may be required before use.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Keep containers sealed to prevent moisture absorption.
For Flavor & Fragrance Intermediates:
Nova Industries
Website: https://novaind.in/