2-Undecanone

2-Undecanone is an oily organic liquid manufactured synthetically, but which can also be extracted from oil of rue. It is found naturally in bananas, cloves, ginger, guava, and strawberries. 2-Undecanone is used in the perfumery and flavoring industries, but because of its strong odor it is primarily used as an insect or animal repellant. Typically, 1–2% concentrations of 2-undecanone are found in dog and cat repellents in the form of a liquid, aerosol spray, or gel.

Additional recommended knowledge

What is the Correct Way to Check Repeatability in Balances?

Recognize and detect the effects of electrostatic charges on your balance

Essential Laboratory Skills Guide

2-Undecanone is a ketone, also known as methyl nonyl ketone (MNK). It is soluble in ethanol, benzene, chloroform, and acetone, but its large carbon chain renders it insoluble in water. Like most methyl ketones, 2-undecanone undergoes a haloform reaction when in the presence of a base. For example, the reaction between 2-undecanone and sodium hypochlorite yields sodium decanoate, chloroform, and sodium hydroxide.

CH₃CO(CH₂)₈CH₃ + 3NaOCl → CH₃(CH₂)₈COONa + CHCl₃ + 2NaOH

References

• Lange's Handbook of Chemistry (14th Edition), McGraw-Hill, 1992; Section 1; Table 1.15
• The Condensed Chemical Dictionary (10th Edition), Gesner G. Hawley
• http://www.thegoodscentscompany.com/data/rw1021151.html