Capronic acid as a representative of saturated fatty acids

In natural fats, saturated acids of the normal structure are most often encountered. Their physical properties depend on the molecular weight. These acids are able to form eutectic mixtures - alloys with a constant melting point, which makes it impossible to separate them into separate components even during the process of repeated crystallization.

It should also be noted that these acids dissolve in virtually all organic solvents, including diethyl ether, acetone or chloroform. In addition, they are sufficiently resistant to the effects of various reagents (oxidants, halogens or other compounds). The main representatives of this group of chemical compounds are oily, caprylic, lauric, myristic, palmitic, caproic acid, etc. The structure of most acids that are found in natural fats has a specific feature - they have an even number of carbon atoms.

Capronic acid is a vivid representative of saturated fatty acids. This is an oily liquid without color, which is characterized by a sharp unpleasant odor. It is part of the coconut, palm, and cow oil.

Capronic acid can be excreted from the nitrile, as well as from the oxidation of normal hexanol or castor oil. This compound is also formed by sugar fermentation in the presence of rotten cheese. It is a by-product of this reaction. In addition, caproic acid can form when exposed to streptococci. For its recovery it is recommended to carry out fractionation of crude butyric acid with washing with water.

I must say that a lot of salts of this substance are known. Its essential oils are characterized by a pleasant fruity odor, so they are successfully used as essences.

It is also worth mentioning the role of saturated fatty acids as technological additives to rubber, which strengthen its structure and promote the appearance of new properties. Thus, in the course of the study of the strength of rubbers during breaks, it was found that with the addition of caproic acid, it is possible to achieve the greatest homogeneity of this material. The use of a low molecular weight form of this compound led to the least resistance to premature vulcanization, which indicates a high activity of this acid.

In the field of cosmetology, glycolic acid is often used, which has the lowest molecular weight of all alpha hydroxy acids. This allows this substance to easily penetrate the barrier of the epidermis.

Glycolic acid, which can be bought at the pharmacy, is successfully used to reduce pigmentation and to conduct deep peeling. It is worth noting that it also perfectly eliminates fine wrinkles, making the face skin smoother and more elastic, since it causes more intensive collagen synthesis, and also causes active cell growth.

Given such effects, glycolic acid is widely used in the field of cosmetology. The price of skin care products, which contain this compound in their composition, are quite affordable. This causes a wide use of various creams and lotions based on this acid, especially among women with problem or aging skin.