Description :
Overview of trans-2-Hexenoic Acid
The colorless to white crystalline solid or powder known as trans-2-Hexenoic Acid (also called (E)-2-hexenoic acid) has a strong, fruity, fatty, and slightly herbal smell. It has the molecular formula C₆H₁₀O₂ and is an unsaturated carboxylic acid with a double bond in the trans (E) configuration.
This compound can be made in a lab or found naturally in the flavors of many fruits, vegetables, and essential oils. For example, it can be found in apples, bananas, guavas, vine leaves, and Japanese peppermint oil.
Applications of trans-2-Hexenoic Acid
Flavor & Fragrance Industry
- trans-2-Hexenoic Acid is widely used as a flavoring and fragrance agent, imparting a persistent, fruity, and herbal note that enhances the sensory qualities of food products and perfumes.
- In flavor formulations, it is utilized in a wide range of fruit profiles, often in combination with Hexanoic Acid, cis-3-Hexenol, and 2-Hexenal to recreate natural green and fruity aromas found in apples, bananas, guavas, and berries. In perfumery, it is valued for producing sharp, fresh, and slightly warm green or fatty notes useful in designing apple blossom, leafy, or fougère accords.
Polymer & Material Synthesis
- Trans-2-Hexenoic Acid is a valuable building block for making polymers and specialty chemicals. It helps make monomers, plasticizers, and copolymers that are more flexible, resistant, and able to form films.
- Its unsaturated structure makes it more reactive, which makes it a good choice for developing advanced materials along with esters like Hexyl Acetate.
Pharmaceutical & Biochemical Applications
- The compound is examined as an intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis, particularly in the development of dehydroepiandrosterone derivatives and phosphatase inhibitors, which exhibit potential antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Biochemical research utilizes trans-2-hexenoic acid to investigate metabolic pathways, enzyme functionality, and as a constituent in the synthesis of bioactive molecules pertinent to clinical development.
Agricultural & Technical Use
- In agrochemicals, trans-2-Hexenoic Acid is being investigated in the development of herbicides, growth regulators, and pest repellents due to its natural occurrence and bioactive green note.
- Its pungent odor acts as a deterrent for certain pests, and research in environmental science uses it for studying plant communications and defense mechanisms against herbivory.
Safety & Handling Guidelines
- Handle trans-2-Hexenoic Acid with gloves and eye protection; although considered of low toxicity, it can cause mild skin or eye irritation on contact.
- Use adequate ventilation or work in a fume hood to minimize inhalation of dust or concentrated vapors.
- Store in tightly sealed containers at 2–8°C, protected from light, heat, and strong oxidizing agents; it is relatively stable at room temperature, but prolonged exposure to air and humidity may cause degradation.
- If spilled, absorb with non-combustible material (sand or earth), ventilate the area, and dispose of residues following local environmental regulations.
- Avoid discharge into the environment, as water solubility is low and the compound may persist in soil or water.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after use and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in areas where the material is being handled.
- Review and follow the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for detailed emergency measures and environmental impact information.
- Prolonged exposure to high concentrations or repeated skin contact may cause minor sensitization; minimize exposure accordingly.
Where to Buy trans-2-Hexenoic Acid?
trans-2-Hexenoic Acid Manufacturer in India:
ChemicalBull supplies high-purity trans-2-hexenoic acid for flavor, fragrance, research, and specialty chemical sectors with batch documentation.
trans-2-Hexenoic Acid Distributor & Supplier in Vapi:
ChemicalBull provides bulk and specialty-scale delivery for food, fragrance, and technical applications, supported with full regulatory documentation.
trans-2-Hexenoic Acid MSDS
Comprehensive safety, storage, environmental, and toxicity data are available by requesting the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) from ChemicalBull.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is trans-2-hexenoic acid used for?
It is used in flavors, fragrances, polymer synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural research for its fruity, herbal aroma and chemical reactivity.
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Is trans-2-hexenoic acid safe?
At low concentrations in food and fragrance use, it is generally regarded as safe; direct contact with concentrated material should be avoided.
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Is trans-2-hexenoic acid natural or synthetic?
Trans-2-hexenoic acid occurs naturally in fruits and essential oils but is commonly synthesized for commercial use.
