Isoamyl acetate, also known as isopentyl acetate, is an organic compound that is the ester formed from isoamyl alcohol and acetic acid. It is a colorless liquid that is only slightly soluble in water, but very soluble in most organic solvents. Isoamyl acetate has a strong odor (similar to Juicy Fruit, a foam banana sweet or a pear drop) which is also described as similar to both banana and pear. Banana oil is a term that is applied either to pure isoamyl acetate or to flavorings that are mixtures of isoamyl acetate, amyl acetate, and other flavors.
| Chemical Name: | Isoamyl Acetate |
| Other Names: | • 3-Methylbutyl acetate • Isopentyl acetate |
| CAS No: | 123-92-2 |
| Chemical Formula: | C7H14O2 |
Benefits and Applications
- Isoamyl acetate is used for the preparation of many synthetic flavours from apple to pina colada and even coffee and this is the main area of application. Over 40 flavours involve the use of isoamyl acetate.
- It plays an important part in all beers and is part of the overall flavour profile. It is produced by yeast during fermentation for this application and is present at low levels (typical 1.4mg/l).
- It is also used as a low toxicity solvent for some varnishes and nitrocellulose lacquers. It was extensively used in the aircraft industry for stiffening fabric flying surfaces as the carrier for the nitrocellulose and retains this application in model aircraft only.
- It is a common ‘alarm’ pheromone for honeybees and low concentrations will attract large numbers.
- As Isoamyl acetate has a strong, pleasant odour and low toxicity, it can be used to test effectiveness of gas seals such as in respirators.
