2-Tridecanone (CAS Number: 593-08-8), also known as methyl undecyl ketone (C13H26O), is a colorless or white waxy solid or viscous liquid primarily used as an edible flavoring and food additive.
Chemical Properties
2-Tridecanone appears as white waxy or colorless crystalline flakes and has aromas that are waxy, fatty, earthy, dairy-like, and reminiscent of coconut. It also carries nutty and herbal notes. The boiling point is 263℃, or 162℃ at 2000 Pa, and its flash point is 107℃. This compound is insoluble in water but very soluble in ethanol, ether, acetone, propylene glycol, oils, and benzene. It can be found naturally in coconut oil, palm oil, cheddar cheese, mangoes, and other products.
Uses
2-Tridecanone is a flavoring and food additive commonly used to create milk and cheese flavors. It is widely utilized in frozen foods, cream products, and puddings. Additionally, 2-tridecanone serves as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of mushroom flavors. Its long-chain alkyl structure, combined with a keto carbonyl group, effectively mimics natural flavor compounds, imparting a mushroom-like aroma to foods.
Production Method
2-Tridecanone is found naturally in coconut oil and palm oil. It can be synthesized by heating a mixture of lauric acid and acetic acid to 450°C and passing it through a thorium oxide catalyst.