Isobutyrate refers to the anion or ester of isobutyric acid (2-methylpropanoic acid).
It is commonly used in chemicals, solvents, coatings, fragrances, plasticizers, and pharmaceutical intermediates.

Chemical Identity

• Parent acid: Isobutyric acid

• IUPAC name: 2-Methylpropanoate

• General formula: C₄H₇O₂⁻ (anion)

• Common forms: Sodium isobutyrate, calcium isobutyrate, isobutyl isobutyrate, etc.

• CAS (isobutyric acid): 79-31-2

(Different esters have different CAS numbers; tell me which one you need.)

Properties (based on the acid/esters)

• Molecular formula: C₄H₈O₂

• Molar mass: 88.11 g/mol

• Boiling point: ~154–157°C

• Melting point: −47°C

• Density: ~0.96 g/cm³

• Odor: Slight, fruity, characteristic (especially esters)

• Solubility:

  • Acid: partially soluble in water

  • Esters: lower in water, good in organic solvents

Applications & Uses

• Fragrance industry (fruity, sweet ester notes)

• Solvents

• Plasticizers

• Resins & coatings

• Pharmaceutical intermediates

• Food additives (some esters)

• Chemical synthesis building block