Isopentyl acetate is found in apple. Isopentyl acetate is present in many fruit aromas, especially banana. Isopentyl acetate is used in banana flavouring. Isoamyl acetate has a strong odor (similar to Juicy Fruit 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, nitrocellulose and other flavors. Pear oil commonly refers to a solution of isoamyl acetate in ethanol that is used as an artificial flavor. 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 clear colorless liquid that is only slightly soluble in water, but very soluble in most organic solvents.
Isopentyl acetate belongs to the family of Carboxylic Acid Esters. These are carboxylic acid derivatives in which the carbo atom from the carbonyl group is atached to an alkyl or oar
Solubility less than 1 mg/mL at 66 °F (NTP, 1992)
Formula
C7H14O2
Mol. Weight
130.18
CAS #
123-92-2
Form
Liquid
State
Iso-amyl acetate is an oily liquid; colorless; banana odor. Floats and mixes with water. Flammable, irritating vapor is produced. (USCG, 1999)
See origin →
Functions
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Dissolves Ingredients
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Fights Bacteria
Dissolves other ingredients
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester first synthesized in the 19th century, commonly used as a fragrance component mimicking banana or pear scents. Adopted by the cosmetics industry in the early 20th century as a synthetic alternative to natural fragrance compounds.