Capsaicin
Revision as of 06:59, 24 July 2013 by (username removed)
Description
A pungent compound that is extremely irritating to the mucus membranes and eyes of humans and other mammals. Capsaicin is isolated from species of Capsicum, such as paprika and cayenne. It is the primary active ingredient in pepper spray and pepper foam, Capsaicin is so powerful that only trace amounts are needed to be effective. Repeated exposure results in immunity to its painful effects.
Synonyms and Related Terms
pepper spray; pepper foam
Other Properties
Insoluble in cold water. Soluble in alcohol, ether, benzene, chloroform. Slightly soluble in carbon disulfide.
| Composition | C18H27NO3 |
|---|---|
| CAS | 404-86-4 |
| Melting Point | 65 |
| Molecular Weight | mol. wt. = 305.40 |
| Boiling Point | 210-220 |